last day of rituximab!

We have finally made it to our last day of rituximab (today)!  It has been a very difficult time but we are finally here!  We hope that the last treatment goes well and that the antibodies go away so that we can return to our monthly transfusions. 

Thank you all for your support through all of this - it has helped us tremendously!  We don't know what we would have done without all of the great advise from Andy and our friends!!

The poor child has been through torture, I'm praying that all goes well!!   

Love,
Sharmin

Best of luck Sharmin, Lots of hugs and kisses for your little soldier 

ZAINI.

Thanks Zaini - he always appreciates all of your encouraging words:)

Andy,  after the rituximab how long should we expect the existing antibodies to be around?  Should we expect to wait a few months before the full benefits of the treatment are experienced?  At the very least I am glad that more antibodies are not being produced! 

Thank you,

Sharmin

Sharmin,

The results using rituximab for hemolytic anemias caused by autoantibodies are usually seen very quickly. If there is a recurrence after some months, the therapy is normally repeated. There is a good chance that it won't return. Of course, genotyping of the blood can help prevent a recurrence.

Rituximab cycle is complete 

He needed a tx today, his hg was 91 but the blood won't be ready until tomorrow because of all of the tests that they run to cross match him. 

He has a terrible lower back ache tonight.  Should we be concerned?  Could this be related to exjade or the rituximab?  There is more pain toward the right side from his spine.  He is also exhausted and seems to have no appetite after this last treatment.  I hope that he will be fine soon.  We've had enough!! 

Thanks again everyone,

sharmin

I hope he gets better everyday.

Wishing you all the best for the future.