[trishgen2001]

My daughter had her 1st round of ATG about 4 weeks ago. She's currently taking a total of 350mg daily of cyclosporine. Her first blood test after the ATG seemed very promising-plat up to 30 from 10 when we left the hospital and ANC's up to 1700 from 400 and that was 3 days after treatment. Last week, her WBC was actually in the normal range (5.4), with plat @ 20 & RBC @ 2.93, Hemoglobin 9.5. This week I feel like we are starting all over again. Her WBC is down to 2.4, RBC is 2.65, Hemo 8.5, plat @ 24. Her ANC's have dropped back down to 600 from 1200 last week. If anyone who has gone through this treatment could tell me a bit about their response (how soon, how much) and experiences, I'd really appreciate the input. Also, if anyone has any suggestions on how to manage the extra hair growth caused by the cyclosporine. She is wanting laser hair removal-her Dr. is looking into whether this is actually an option for her or not. She's 16 and really getting bummed out about the changes in her appearance. This is very hard as she has been such a trooper through all of the tests, through the ATG treatment, and all the changes this stupid AA has handed her. Thankfully, we are off the prednisone (there's nothing like a teenager on steroids!!) as of last week, and I can see some of the "puffiness" going away already. Anyway, any response is appreciated!