Clinical trials move rapidly and something really exciting may happen between the writing and publishing of this material. While we've tried to be as current as possible, new ideas and research results will invariably change the landscape of leukemia therapy as it exists today. With all the treatment options available, choices become most confusing for patients. Families and caregivers are often called upon for help, so we'll cover ways to make the best treatment decision. Working with your doctor and his team is a key issue, so we've devoted a chapter to ways to make this important relationship effective.
Treatment helps, but sometimes there are side effects.
Topics of discussion include what to expect and how to deal with unexpected side effects. We'll talk about stress and what it does to the immune system, and we'll discuss ways of getting support when you need it. Chapter 16, After Treatment deals with ways to face that problem. Sooner or later that hard-won remission may deteriorate and we may face a recurrence of leukemia. We'll consider ways to deal with that situation head on.