Increase in AST and a reduction in Neutrophils what does this mean?

[wotshernameagain]

I have been asked to go in for another blood test today as my latest blood test showed an increase in AST and a reduction in neutrophils. I have also been told not to take any Methotrexate until they look at the results of this blood test

I have no idea what this means help!

[joannebond360]

Think Ast level is to do with the liver if increased it could be the methotrexate having an effect. I am also having weekly bloods for methotrexate, week 5 now and having borderline results in a few things so will have to see what happens. Good luck today, let us know how it goes.

[wotshernameagain]

Thanks hun

[JJKANE]

Neutrophil is in relation to white blood cells ( the good guys) you may have a slight infection goin on somewhere .

[Trulyfedup]

Hi, hope you get it sorted. It is worrying but sometimes these are just Hic-ups that do improve. Thinking of you Mary x

[Slowmo]

Hi, I believe the AST and ALT are similar, my ALT was raised due to the Azathioprine I was taking, the consultant stopped the medication immediately and it took around 3 months for my levels to return to normal. I believe the ALT and AST raise as a result of increased toxins (in this case meds) in the liver and the liver then releases enzymes into the body, whilst if ignored this can be dodgy, if the medication is suspended the liver regenerates itself over time and I am now back on the meds with regular (fortnightly) blood tests to monitor any changes.

I understand this is worrying, I was getting very anxious over it and this only added to increased stress levels, but now it's rectified I realise that the worrying was not at all helpful but is probably natural as we do tend to worry when difficulties arise.

All the best take care.

[Purpletop]

It is the effect of medication - increased liver function tests means your liver is inflamed, whilst the increase in neutrophils means your bone marrow is affected. But stopping or reducing the dose of the current medication will redress that.