After Treatment

After treatment for eosinophilic leukemia ends, talk with your doctor about developing a follow-up care plan. This plan may include regular physical examinations, blood tests, bone marrow biopsies, and possibly scans or other imaging studies to monitor your recovery for the coming months and years. People experiencing a long-term remission are encouraged to follow cancer screening recommendations for the general population.

Some cancer treatments may cause long-term side effects.

• Numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands and feet may occur in people who have received vincristine.
  
  
• Heart damage in the form of a weakened heart muscle may occur in people who have received a higher total dose of doxorubicin (Adriamycin) or radiation therapy to the chest.
  
  
• Infertility (inability to have a child) or premature menopause can occur in people who have received high-dose cyclophosphamide or other chemotherapy.
  
  
• A secondary leukemia or other type of secondary cancer (cancer that develops because of the treatment for another type of cancer) is more common in people who were treated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Talk with your health-care team about the best ways to manage these side effects.

People recovering from eosinophilic leukemia are encouraged to follow established guidelines for good health, such as maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, eating a balanced diet, and having recommended cancer screening tests. Talk with your doctor to develop a plan that is best for your needs. Moderate physical activity can help rebuild your strength and energy level. Your doctor can help you create an appropriate exercise plan based upon your needs, physical abilities, and fitness level. Learn more about healthy living after cancer.

Find out more about common terms used after cancer treatment is complete.