After Treatment

After treatment for mastocytosis ends, talk with your doctor about developing a follow-up care plan. This plan may include regular physical examinations and/or medical tests to monitor your recovery for the coming months and years. Follow up visits will include blood tests and possibly scans or other imaging studies. Normally, follow-up visits are most frequent in the first three years after treatment; patients are encouraged to have lifelong, follow-up care.

People who received ultraviolet (UV) rays for the treatment of cutaneous mastocytosis should be aware of increased risk of skin cancer in the future. Follow-up physical examinations and skin evaluations are important in the early diagnosis and prevention of this condition.

Several long-term side effects of chemotherapy may occur:

• People who have received certain chemotherapy to the lungs may develop lung damage.
  
  
• Heart damage in the form of a weakened heart muscle may occur in people who have received a higher dose of doxorubicin (Adriamycin) or radiation therapy to the chest.
  
  
• Infertility (inability to have children) or premature menopause can occur in people who have received high-dose cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan, Neosar) or other chemotherapy.

Secondary leukemia and secondary cancers (cancers that develop as a result of the treatment for another type of cancer) are more common in people who were treated with chemotherapy.

People recovering from mastocytosis are encouraged to follow established guidelines for good health, such as maintaining a healthy weight, 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.

To learn about the terms used in this section, read the Cancer.Net Feature: Cancer Terms to Know: After Treatment.