Sunday, December 22, 2013

Rising light chains but okay

We saw Dr. M the myeloma specialist last Wednesday. Doug's Lambda light chains have been rising steadily the last three months and I was concerned. However, the Kappa/Lambda ratio although jumping around hovers near normal. Dr. M says not to worry right now about the rising light chains. He says the Lambda light chains are sensitive to kidney issues, so some fluctuations can be expected. If the light chains go to 500 he might start to worry. The latest number is 123.17 mg/L. So he says the MM is still in remission!
Doug's creatinine is 1.16, ANC is 1.8, both good numbers for him. Total protein is high at 154.9 mg/dL but it came down from the month before. Overall, not a bad picture on paper.
We will see the MM specialist again in two months, and the nephrologist in late January. She will tell us if Doug needs treatment for the kidney disease.

We are enjoying our daily life and looking forward to Christmas at our son's home in Denver. Our oldest grandson who is in the Air Force will be home for Christmas this year. With the youngest three grandkids off to college next year, we will cherish every chance to get them all together now.

Back in 2008 when Doug was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, I didn't think he would be alive 5 1/2 years later. Thanks to new improved drugs, a wonderful specialist, and most of all the grace of God,  I have my husband doing pretty well for this disease. I am so thankful.

May we all remember that Christ is the reason for Christmas.

MERRY CHRISTMAS to all!