Latest results concerning?

[bayside64]

I completed O/V 19 months ago and have been uMRD. I just received my latest lab results.

The blood counts are on a downward spiral: Absolute neuts 1.14, RBC 3.13, Hematocrit 29.3, Hemoglobin 9.5. WBC 2.5 Platelets are always low , 105.

I've contacted my CLL specialist's PA. What do these low counts mean?

Thank you so much to all of you well- informed members.

[AussieNeil Partner Administrator]

I note, that like me, you achieved CRi from your treatment and we both ended up with low, but acceptable platelet counts. Looking back through your past posts, you've only been treated with "non-chemo" targeted therapies. (It would help if you could summarise your treatment history in your bio via this link healthunlocked.com/profile/... ) For some reason, your bone marrow is currently struggling to produce red blood cells (hence your anaemia) and neutrophils, though your platelets remain at an acceptable level. Are you on any medications that could be suppressing your bone marrow?

You were right to flag your concern with your CLL specialist. They might want to arrange a bone marrow biopsy to see what's happening.

Neil

[bayside64 in reply to AussieNeil]

Thank you so much for your immense knowledge and clear response. I followed your suggestion and added to my profile.

[skipro]

Awe scary

As a physician and CLL patient first things on my list and go to responses

1. Lab error, repeat in a few days or week

2. Dilution by having drunk too much non-electrolytes fluid repeat in a few days

3. Have you recently had infection?

4. Any history of kidney disease , have it checked

5. Any dark colored stool, have it tested for occult blood especially if history of GERD or ulcers

Good luck and God bless

Skip pro

[bayside64 in reply to skipro]

I love how you enumerated the possibilities. Number 2 is a possibility. My kidneys did suffer as a result of Tumor Lysis Syndrome. Would IVIG or Neulasta help? I hope to hear from the PA or physician today. Thanks so much for your knowledge.

[skipro in reply to bayside64]

You bet

Hard to say what will help until the cause is identified

God bless and good luck

[cajunjeff]

I am no doctor but can make some observations based on what I have learned about cll and its complications. As Neil wrote, knowing more about your situation and prior labs would help. It’s hard to tell how steep your lab declines were and over what period of time.

That said, it doesn’t appear Cll related since your wbc is low as well. I think a doctor would want to rule out hemolytic anemia if you’ve had sudden drops in RBC and hemoglobin. It could be a medication problem as Neil suggested. It could be one wonky lab result that gets corrected on next labs as skipro wrote.

I dont think anyone of us on here could pinpoint the cause of your below normal labs with so little known. You were right to touch base with your doctor, I suspect he/she will want to do new labs soon. I hope it’s no big deal and that you will let us know how you do.

[bayside64 in reply to cajunjeff]

I really appreciate your input. At my last appointment, my CLL physician said although the numbers were low, they were stable. He didn’t seem concerned. But now these newest labs seem considerably lower. Therefore, my concern. (I added to my bio/profile). I will post again.