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Questions and answers

Does remission mean cure?

News of remission is a great joy. But it does not always mean “you are cured”.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A misty bridge: the road continues
Figure 1.A misty bridge: the road continues

01Short answer

Remission means no signs of leukemia can be seen in tests. Cure means the disease never comes back, and that can only be said after many years of follow-up. Remission is an important stage on the way: for some people it lasts a lifetime, for others the disease returns (relapse). That is why treatment and regular check-ups continue after remission. Doctors consider “long-term remission” a more careful and accurate phrase.

02Simple explanation

Remission: the disease cannot be seen.

Cure: the disease does not come back; only time shows this.

03Scientific explanation

Relapse risk is highest in the first years after remission and falls over time; how long depends on the type of leukemia.

A deep, MRD-negative remission lowers relapse risk but does not remove it completely.

04What happens in the body?

The difference

Remission is a snapshot of today. Cure is a long-term outcome. Even in remission a few cells may remain that the most sensitive tests cannot find.

Why treatment continues

Consolidation, maintenance or a transplant aim to destroy remaining cells. This lowers the risk of relapse.

Lanterns of the years
Figure 2.Lanterns of the years

Life in remission

Remission is a time to return to life: work, family, hobbies. At the same time, keep your check-ups and tell your doctor about new symptoms.

A new sprout
Figure 3.A new sprout — Does remission mean cure?

05From remission to a long-term outcome

Four stages.

Remission — Leukemia cannot be seen.1RemissionLeukemia cannot be seen.
Strengthening — Treatment against remaining cells.2StrengtheningTreatment against remaining cells.
Follow-up — Regular tests.3Follow-upRegular tests.
Years pass — The risk gradually falls.4Years passThe risk gradually falls.
HopeRemission is a big step.
VigilanceCheck-ups give safety.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
The differenceRemission is a snapshot of today. Cure is a long-term outcome. Even in remission a few cells may remain that the most sensitive tests cannot find.
Why treatment continuesConsolidation, maintenance or a transplant aim to destroy remaining cells. This lowers the risk of relapse.
Life in remissionRemission is a time to return to life: work, family, hobbies. At the same time, keep your check-ups and tell your doctor about new symptoms.

07Key terms

Remission
No signs of the disease.
Relapse
The disease coming back.
Long-term remission
Remission lasting years.

08Key points

  • Remission is not always cure.
  • Treatment may continue after remission.
  • The risk falls with time.
  • Keep your check-ups.

09Frequently asked questions

When can I say “I am cured”?

It depends on the type; ask your doctor about your own situation.

Can I live normally in remission?

Yes, many people return to work and everyday life.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. When can I say “I am cured”?

  2. Can I live normally in remission?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute (NCI). NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: remission
  2. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Recurrent Cancer: When Cancer Comes Back
  3. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Follow-Up Medical Care
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Survivorship: During and After Treatment
  5. NHS. Stem cell and bone marrow transplants
  6. Anthony Nolan. Understanding stem cell transplants
  7. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Stem Cell Transplants in Cancer Treatment
  8. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Leukemia — Patient Version
  9. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Adult Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®) — Patient Version
  10. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Treatment (PDQ®) — Patient Version
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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