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After treatment and remission

Comparing year by year

In remission, the most useful information is not one test but the sequence of tests over years. This topic explains how to collect results, put them in a table and read them correctly.

Last updated: ~2 min read
Glowing bars of nearly equal height on a dark floor.
Figure 1.Steady results over years are a good sign.

01Short answer

Comparing year by year means following the same values (for example haemoglobin, white cells, neutrophils, platelets, liver and kidney tests) consistently over a long time. One test is a snapshot; a series shows the direction: whether a value is stable, slowly recovering or gradually changing. It helps to keep results in a simple table with the date, laboratory and units. A single result slightly outside the normal range is often unimportant; a repeated change in one direction needs your doctor’s attention. Your doctor always gives the interpretation.

02Simple explanation

One test is a snapshot.

A series shows direction.

Keep results in a table.

Mind the units and laboratory.

Your doctor interprets.

03Scientific explanation

Reference range: MedlinePlus notes that normal ranges differ slightly between laboratories, so results are best compared within one laboratory.

Biological variation: even in healthy people values change from day to day; small differences are normal.

Recovery: after intensive treatment, platelets and lymphocytes may recover gradually over months.

Trend: a change in the same direction over several consecutive tests is more informative than a single outlier.

04What happens in the body?

Why compare?

Your doctor usually sees the last few results. You can keep the full picture over years — especially useful if your doctor changes.

Which values to record

Haemoglobin, white cells, neutrophils, lymphocytes, platelets; when relevant, liver enzymes, creatinine, ferritin and a molecular marker.

Normal range

Write the laboratory’s normal range next to each result. Values within range are usually good.

A glowing horizontal band with small points inside.
Figure 2.The normal range is like a calm corridor.

A single outlier

One value slightly outside the range — for example after a cold — is often temporary. Your doctor will repeat the test if needed.

An amber point lifted just above the band.
Figure 3.A single outlier needs context.

How to build a simple table

Columns: date, laboratory, test, result, unit, normal range, note (for example “cold”). On paper or in a spreadsheet.

When to call your doctor

Worrying signs — fever, bleeding, new pain, breathlessness — should be reported to your doctor between visits too. Getting in touch early is always better than waiting.

05From papers to a trend

The steps of comparison.

Gather — Past results are collected.1GatherPast results are collected.
Table — Results are entered in a table.2TableResults are entered in a table.
Trend — Change over time becomes visible.3TrendChange over time becomes visible.
Discuss — Reviewed with your doctor.4DiscussReviewed with your doctor.
A clear trendThe direction is visible.
CalmOne value is not alarming.
A useful talkPrecise discussion with your doctor.

06Example table columns

ColumnExampleNote
Date2026-03-12Every test
LaboratoryCentral laboratoryThe same one is better
TestPlatelets—
Result and unit185 ×10⁹/LDo not mix units
NoteAfter a coldContext matters

* Example values only show the format.

07Key terms

Reference range
Values expected in healthy people.
Trend
The direction of a value over time.
Unit
The unit of measurement, e.g. ×10⁹/L.
Neutrophils
The main white cells that fight infection.
Platelets
Cells that help blood clot.
Biological variation
Natural fluctuation of values.

08Key points

  • One test is a snapshot.
  • A series shows direction.
  • Keep a table.
  • The same laboratory is better.
  • A single outlier is often temporary.
  • Your doctor interprets.

09Frequently asked questions

Do I need to record every test?

Recording the main values is enough.

There are different units — what should I do?

Ask your doctor or the laboratory how to convert.

My platelets are at the lower limit. Should I worry?

If they are stable, often not; discuss the trend with your doctor.

Spreadsheet or notebook?

Whichever is easier; consistency is what matters.

Does this information replace medical advice?

No. This is general education; only your treating doctor can assess your situation.

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. Do I need to record every test?

  2. There are different units — what should I do?

  3. My platelets are at the lower limit. Should I worry?

  4. Spreadsheet or notebook?

  5. Does this information replace medical advice?

My questions

12Sources

  1. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  2. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
  3. NHS. Blood tests
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Follow-Up Medical Care
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Cancer Survivorship
  6. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Follow-Up Care After Cancer Treatment
  7. Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS). Long-Term and Late Effects of Treatment
  8. National Cancer Institute. Facing Forward: Life After Cancer Treatment
  9. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Long-Term Side Effects of Cancer Treatment
  10. European Heart Journal, 2022. 2022 ESC Guidelines on cardio-oncology developed in collaboration with EHA, ESTRO and IC-OS
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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