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After treatment and remission

If you suspect a relapse

Knowing what to do when symptoms or a test result raise the possibility of relapse helps you avoid delay and panic.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A phone on a morning table.
Figure 1.Calling the team is the first step.

01Short answer

The first step is to call your haematology team. Usually a complete blood count is done first; if it is suspicious, bone marrow tests, flow cytometry, genetic tests and MRD testing follow. If relapse is confirmed, there are still treatment options: newer medicines, targeted treatment, immunotherapy, clinical trials and, in some cases, a transplant. The choice depends on the type of leukaemia, previous treatment and general health.

02Simple explanation

First, call your team.

A blood count is the first test.

If needed, bone marrow.

Relapse still has options.

Decide together.

03Scientific explanation

Molecular relapse: sometimes an MRD test shows a rise before symptoms or blood changes.

Genetics: new mutations can appear at relapse, so tests are repeated.

Trials: the NCI recommends considering clinical trials as an option at relapse.

04What happens in the body?

Who should I call?

Your own haematology team, using the number given for nights and weekends.

Which tests?

A blood count, then if needed bone marrow, genetic and MRD tests.

Tubes and a microscope.
Figure 2.Tests check the suspicion.

Waiting is hard

It is normal to ask for support while waiting for results: loved ones, a psychologist, patient groups.

Next steps

If relapse is confirmed, the team will explain the options; a second opinion is also possible.

A path of light dividing in two.
Figure 3.The path depends on the results.

05From suspicion to a plan

Four steps.

Call — Contact your haematologist.1CallContact your haematologist.
Test — A blood count first.2TestA blood count first.
Confirm — Bone marrow if needed.3ConfirmBone marrow if needed.
Plan — Decide together.4PlanDecide together.
TimeNothing is delayed.
ClarityTests give an answer.
PathThe next step is clear.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
Who should I call?Your own haematology team, using the number given for nights and weekends.
Which tests?A blood count, then if needed bone marrow, genetic and MRD tests.
Waiting is hardIt is normal to ask for support while waiting for results: loved ones, a psychologist, patient groups.
Next stepsIf relapse is confirmed, the team will explain the options; a second opinion is also possible.

07Key terms

Relapse
The disease coming back.
MRD
Measurable residual disease.
Haematological relapse
Relapse visible in blood or marrow.
Molecular relapse
A rise seen only with sensitive tests.
Clinical trial
A study of a new treatment.

08Key points

  • Call your team directly.
  • Write symptoms down with dates.
  • Wait for results; do not self-treat.
  • Ask for support.
  • Ask about options and a second opinion.

09Frequently asked questions

Can relapse be treated?

Yes, in many cases there are options; the team will explain them for your situation.

How long do results take?

A blood count is quick; genetics can take up to one or two weeks.

Who should I tell?

That is your choice; one or two supportive people may be enough.

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. Can relapse be treated?

  2. How long do results take?

  3. Who should I tell?

  4. Does this information replace medical advice?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Recurrent Cancer: When Cancer Comes Back
  2. American Cancer Society. Understanding Recurrence
  3. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Definition: minimal residual disease
  5. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Follow-Up Medical Care
  6. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Follow-Up Care After Cancer Treatment
  7. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Cancer Survivorship
  8. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Personal Health Records
  9. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Coping With Fear of Recurrence
  10. National Cancer Institute (NCI). NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: survivorship care plan
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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