Ultrasounds are used to view internal organs as they function, and to assess blood flow through various vessels. This is the area around the spinal cord. The pressure in the spinal canal and brain can then be measured. CSF is the fluid that bathes your child s brain and spinal cord. Remission is the goal in this stage of treatment.
Remission means the leukemia cells are no longer being made.
This phase may last approximately one month and can be repeated if the goal is not achieved. The leukemia cells may not be visible in a blood test or bone marrow examination, but it is possible that the cells are still present in the body. This phase can last months to several years. Regular visits to your child s physician are required in order to determine response to treatment, detect any recurrent disease, and manage any side effects of the treatment. Relapse is when the bone marrow begins making abnormal cells again.