Around the brain and spine, (the central nervous system) a fluid called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulates. Leukaemia cells can sometimes be found here. When chemo is given by injection into a vein or by tablets, it can't reach the CSF and so the leukaemia cells can survive. To prevent this CNS therapy is given.
what happens?
CNS therapy involves having an injection of chemo drugs and steroids into the CSF by lumbar puncture. This method of giving drugs is known as intrathecal chemotherapy. Usually only one or two lots of intrathecal chemo are needed.
Very rarely, if leukaemia cells continue to stay in the spinal fluid, you may need radiotherapy. Your doctor will tell you if this applies to you.
are there side effects?
When drugs are given intrathecally, they don't tend to cause too many side effects. The side effects you experience come from having a lumbar puncture. It's not usually painful, but you might feel some discomfort. You’ll need to lie flat for an hour or more afterwards and you might have a headache - let the staff know if this happens and they’ll give you some painkillers. You can roll from side to side, but sitting up too soon can make the headache worse.
