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Guide for patients and loved ones

Test results notebook

Keeping results in one place helps you see trends and talk with your doctor.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A blank table
Figure 1.A blank table — Test results notebook

01Short answer

In a test results notebook, set up a table: date, haemoglobin, white cells, neutrophils (ANC), platelets and other values your doctor considers important (liver and kidney tests, drug levels, PCR, MRD). Add the cycle day and whether you had a transfusion to each row. Keep marrow and genetic reports in a separate section. The notebook shortens conversations with your doctor and lets you show your treatment history quickly at a new centre.

02Simple explanation

A table turns numbers into a story.

The date and cycle day belong on every row.

03Scientific explanation

Recording values with the cycle day makes nadir and recovery periods clear.

In CML, PCR results are reported on the International Scale (IS); comparisons are more accurate within one laboratory.

04What happens in the body?

The table

Columns: date, cycle day, Hb, white cells, ANC, platelets, notes (transfusion, fever). A separate page for other tests.

Reports

Copies of marrow, genetic and imaging reports, in date order with coloured dividers.

A trend line
Figure 2.A trend line — Test results notebook

Using it

Before a visit, add the latest results and note questions in the margin. Do not make decisions from the numbers yourself.

Coloured sections
Figure 3.Coloured sections — Test results notebook

05Setting up the notebook

Four steps.

Draw a table — The main columns.1Draw a tableThe main columns.
Write the date — With the cycle day.2Write the dateWith the cycle day.
Look at the trend — Rises and falls.3Look at the trendRises and falls.
Discuss — With your doctor.4DiscussWith your doctor.
A clear trendRecovery and nadir are visible.
A ready historyFor a new doctor.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
The tableColumns: date, cycle day, Hb, white cells, ANC, platelets, notes (transfusion, fever). A separate page for other tests.
ReportsCopies of marrow, genetic and imaging reports, in date order with coloured dividers.
Using itBefore a visit, add the latest results and note questions in the margin. Do not make decisions from the numbers yourself.

07Key terms

Hb
Haemoglobin.
ANC
Absolute neutrophil count.
IS
The International Scale for PCR.

08Key points

  • Collect results in one table.
  • Write the date and cycle day.
  • Keep reports separately.
  • Interpret with your doctor.

09Frequently asked questions

Which values should I record?

The main four plus any your doctor points out.

Can I use a spreadsheet?

Yes, but print a copy for your folder too.

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. Which values should I record?

  2. Can I use a spreadsheet?

My questions

12Sources

  1. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). How to Understand Your Lab Results
  2. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  3. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Managing Costs and Medical Information
  4. NHS. Chemotherapy
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Survivorship: During and After Treatment
  6. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Caring for the Caregiver
  7. NCCN. NCCN Guidelines for Patients
  8. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Talking With Family and Friends
  9. NHS. High temperature (fever) in adults
  10. NHS. How to wash your hands
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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