Enlarged red blood cells

[carlyjo]

Hi there. Just looking for a, wee bit of advice. I've ET and the MPL gene ( diagnosed after a stroke) My platelets have gone up slightly to 490 (though down from over 900) my own gp took bloods and said everything was fine except that my red blood cells were a bit enlarged - he just phoned me there. I'm on hydroxycarbamide - 500 every day, 1000 x2 a week. Am wondering if this is something anyone else has experienced. Trying not to worry or Google it 😬thanks Carolann xx

[carlyjo]

Ps - my vitamin B12 is normal apparently

[mhos61]

Hydroxycarbamide can cause this. Take a look at the link below.

My MCV has been slightly raised (macrocytosis) since being on hydroxy. Someone on here once said that their haematologist told them this is how they know they are taking the drug. My response to that is, it must be expected! I think a lot of GPs may be unaware and are being cautious; my own included, who tested for B12 too.

bloodjournal.org/content/91...

[carlyjo in reply to mhos61]

Thank you 😊👍

[Tico in reply to carlyjo]

Hi carlyjo,mary is indeed spot-on about the hydroxy causing this. As well as b12 deficiency and being a heavy drinker. When I've been admitted to hospital in the past for other medical issues,they thought I was a raging alcoholic because they didn't know the link between hydroxy and didn't know enough about my condition. By the way I don't drink🤣 Atb,tina.🤗

[carlyjo in reply to Tico]

Thanks Tina . Good to know xx ca

[Ebot in reply to mhos61]

Yes, I was told the same.

[carlyjo in reply to Ebot]

Thanks 👍😊

[charl17]

On Hydrea my mcv was just under 120. On Pegasys it is about 90. High mcv is expected with Hydrea.

[carlyjo in reply to charl17]

Thanks for that 😊

[Garstongal]

Yes...it’s due to Hydroxy. My GP noticed it on my blood results and sent a query to the haematologist who confirmed it is because of the medication.

[carlyjo in reply to Garstongal]

Thanks 😊

[Hydrox]

Same here, my consultant told me that my blood test had brought up a red flag because my blood vessels were enlarged due to the hydroxy and that if my gp rang to tell him all was ok as it was caused by the meds.

[carlyjo in reply to Hydrox]

Thanks 👍