A person has been diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) that is positive for the Philadelphia chromosome. What statement by the healthcare professional is most appropriate?
A)"This is good news and means the ALL is not very aggressive."
B)"This is a very rare finding in adults who have ALL."
C)"We are planning to get your disease in remission, but it will be hard."
D)"You will need colony-stimulating support during your treatment."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Philadelphia chromosome is seen in about 30% of adults with ALL and is a poor prognostic indicator. The healthcare professional should recognize this and reassure the patient that they will be doing everything they can to get the disease in remission. Colony-stimulating factor is given when the white blood cell count is too low, which can occur in nearly all neoplasms due to treatment.

A Person Has Been Diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL)