Low platelets

[stmdonofrio]

Hello all. My father's last two blood tests showed low platelets and now his lymphocytes are at 75.5%. He hasn't seen the dr yet because we are on vacation. He is concerned about this. He has been watch and wait, but the low platelets seem to be an indicator of advancement. Any insight would be most appreciated. TIA

[AussieNeil Partner Administrator]

How low are his platelets? While the nominal trigger for starting treatment discussions is when they drop below 100, the latest international guidelines allow them to be lower provided they are stable.

Neither the percentage of lymphocytes or absolute lymphocyte count is of relevance when looking at whether to start, treatment. What is relevant is doubling time after they exceed 30.

Neil

[stmdonofrio in reply to AussieNeil]

The platelet level thankfully isn't that low. It's at 144 now and was 134 in may.

[Cammie in reply to stmdonofrio]

Nowt to worry about enjoy your vacation!

[Jm954 Administrator]

Hi,

your father's white cell and lymph counts were low for a CLL patient on his last results so I would not have thought you have anything to worry about at the moment.

You said before he has an appointment in July and we suggested you get another blood count before that so that you could see what the results are and how the trend is going. Let us know what the Dr says when he sees him.

You might find this patient guide helpful: nccn.org/patients/guideline...

best wishes