blood test update

[Wilcop]

recently had bloods done. WBC from 15 to 20 leukocytes 9 to 13. All others bloods really good. Obviously this has set my gremlins off again into panic mode. I think 8 need reassurance from the ones with great knowledge and experience

[JigFettler Volunteer]

Hi!

There are a lot of numbers on the CLL journey, attached to strange words, names and acronyms! A new language to learn in fact.

Your numbers above are of themselves no concern.

Some number are more important than others though.

Lymphocyte count - is key. Its part of the WBC - total whote count, there are many white cells - in CLL its the lymphocyte we take most notice of.

And Haemogblobin - Hb

Platelets - Pl

The liver - LFT, the kidney - renal are also of importance.

LDH too in active disease.

I would recommend familiarising yourself with them. And keep a running log so you can easily see and trends. Trends are important, espeically if the Hb or Platelet levels are dropping.

Then there are all the genetic tests - which in the UK are done nearer the time for treatment decision. Not everyone needs treatment.

Checkout the "pinned posts". Work your way through them. Pretty much all you need to know to manage CLL and have a good life too.

It is complicated. So no question too stupid ask! Just bounce them off the Forum.

Much experience, knowledge and an abundance of enthusiasm and encourage lurks here.

Best wishes

Jig (UK)

[Wilcop in reply to JigFettler]

Thank you

[AnneHill in reply to Wilcop]

Your numbers are low and if you trust your doctors they will monitor your cll and you dont need to worry.I have had cll for 21 years and it was a shock to be diagnosed. I was waiting for surgery on my back and in a lot of pain.

There was no internet and I was given a booklet which I was told I could read when I was ready. The info is still correct and the only thing that has changed is the knowledge and treatments available now.

We can live longer and you are in the early days. Treatments will improve even more and a cure may be found.

With hindsight I would advise anyone in the early stage of cll to relax and enjoy life as best you can with covid. Do the things you want to do and worry when you need to.

Make sure your vaccinations are up to date including boosters of childhood illnesses that are not live and pneumonia. I was told that nothing I ate or did would stop the cll. We can be sensible thats all.

Dont worry, Anne uk