Wednesday, July 6, 2011

ABPA blood test done...now we just wait for results

Elena did great with her blood draw today. She screamed as she was told she could. Everett was sleeping and didn't wake up. Ethan kept saying, "Why is she screaming?" Emily looked like she might cry herself. They were all in the room with Elena for the big event. As soon as it was done, Ethan and Emily gave Elena a big hug and Ethan said, "You so brave Elena."
We will not have results of the ABPA test back for two weeks. Meanwhile, Elena will be treated for aspergillus for three months. If the bloodwork comes back positive for ABPA, then she will also take a steriod to help clear that up.

Meanwhile, Elena still shows no signs of ABPA. Thanks for all the offers to watch the kids while we went to the Doctor today. I got 15 offers to watch Ethan and Emily! It feels good to have such an awesome support system amongst our friends and family.

This picture is handy work by Ethan. How is it that a 2 and 3 year old are better with an iPhone than their Grandpa? ;)

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA)



We just learned that Elena's recent throat culture tested positive for aspergillus. Her first time. Thank goodness she is doing so well otherwise and is not showing symptoms of ABPA. We'll learn more from the doctor tomorrow when Elena has her blood drawn. Hoping she cooperates like last time.

What is allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA)?

Aspergillus species is a fungus that often lives in the airways of adolescents and young adults with cystic fibrosis (CF). When people develop an allergic reaction to aspergillus, it is called Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis. ABPA affects about 2 to 11% of the people with CF. It causes inflammation in the lungs and, if untreated, can cause further scarring and fibrosis.

See more HERE

Thanks for your continued prayers. We are hopeful that this will be nothing since she has continued to be so healthy and shows no symptoms of anything more serious.

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