HCL

Hi,

I was diagnosed with Hairy Cell Leukemia.  Since then, I have had some extreme fluctuations in my blood cell counts, primarily in my hematocrit, hemoglobin, potasium and WBC. I have a wonderful hemotology/oncologist, but I am trying to look at alternatives to a round of cladrabine.  I really have no physical symptoms, other than being a bit tired or sluggish, but not enough for it to impact my life really.  I also have developed an extreme sensitivity to changes in temperature.  I can't seem to find out any information on whether these fluctuating counts can be because of the HCL.  Any insight anyone can give me would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[Fernando Roque, MD]

Hi.  The sensitivity to temperature changes and the fluctuations in blood counts can all be attributed to the cladribine.   The sensitivity to temperature changes may be a result of neuropathy (dysfunction of the nerves) induced by this drug.  Cladribine also lowers the blood counts, particularly the red and white cell counts, for up to a week and a half after the chemotherapy is given.  The blood counts usually recover after this period.