Problem with spleen and platelets

[JAM44]

Hi all,

I’ve not posted before, but have been reading these posts daily since mid April when I came out of hospital having been admitted as an emergency with badly bleeding varicies a week earlier.

I found out that I had quietly developed decompensated Cirrhosis from a diagnosis of fatty liver about 10 years before. Along with portal hypertension, bleeding varicies and enlarged spleen. I don’t drink. LFT Blood tests were generally normal and Type 2 diabetes seemed to be my biggest problem, although I was aware my liver was swollen for many years, but GP didn’t do any further tests.

I am still having my varicies banded - 5 2 weeks ago and had a US scan last week. The Gastro doctor said my portal hypertension was now mild not moderate and varicies only covered 1/4 not 1/2 of the oesophagus, so looks to be improving. The doctor doing my scan seemed much more concerned however with my enlarged spleen than the cirrhosis in my liver which he now felt was mild, which again sounds like positive news. I have been taking Carvedilol for 8 weeks now.,

I also got my blood test results however, which are mainly improving - apart from my platelets which are going down every blood test this year (I’ve had 3 done) they are now at 83 so not drastically low, and are probably due to portal hypertension and enlarged spleen. Just wondered if anyone else had similar issues? and if the spleen reduced in size and platelet numbers go up again once varicies and portal hypertension settled down or if there are other options?

Sorry for long post! But though it might help to give the background., as so many people have been living with this disease and it’s many symptoms. Many thanks for reading.

[Binjal]

Hi JAM44, I am also in similar situation, not having cirrhosis though. I am dealing with Non Cirrhotic Portal Fibrosis (NCPF). Have been getting banded for Esophageal Varices almost every three to six months for last four years. The platelet counts is normally between 45K to 65K. Enlarged spleen (responsible for low platelet count). Though your GP shall be able to guide better, per my experience nothing much to worry. Be regular with your Carvedilol and exercise to keep your muscles in good shape. Key is to keep the pulse rate in control.

[JAM44 in reply to Binjal]

Thanks Binjal, That all sounds quite reassuring, although praying the need for banding that is currently happening every 6 weeks, doesn’t carry on for the next 4 years!!!

[Binjal in reply to JAM44]

I do not find EVL troublesome at all. Prefer to get it done on Saturday, rest on Sunday and Monday I am at work. It has sort of become a part of the routine. Be positive, don't worry things are going to be alright. Cheers!

[Alibaba80 in reply to Binjal]

Hi there do you have symptoms? Just wondered as you have NCPF?

[Binjal in reply to Alibaba80]

No specific symptoms. LFT and KFT results are normal. Low platelet count and Hemoglobin levels. Extended spleen with increased stiffness. Slightly deranged HVPG. Slight increase in liver stiffness. Recurring esophageal varices. NCPF confirmed through various blood tests, radiological investigations and liver biopsy.

[thelad73]

I was moved onto Carvedilol from bisoprolol last month as it's supposed to better for the liver and hypertension and varices. Just to say I also have heart issues which is why I have to take the betablocker

[redpoint72]

Morning jam44....some great helpful folk on this BLT forum. I suppose I was in a very similar situation to yourself, after being rushed in to hospital, with a really bad varices bleed. Its important that you get your gp or consultant to explain things to you....easier said than done though!!. I've had banding done,as of now,I've got several grade 1 varices. I've been on carvedilol for over 3 years now....regarding the spleen mine has remained enlarged, and my platelet count was 54 in Feb when bloods were done. I have been put on iron tablets several times, as was feeling so very tired all the time. I'm waiting for results of my latest bloods and ultrasound. Glad things seem to be on the up for you. 1 thing I have learnt, is it's a long slow process, for things to improve . Also dont forget,you can phone the BLT nurses,they are great,if you have more things to discuss . Take care love. Chris