can spleen problems be indicated by routine blood tests? dr. does not examine me; lab results show only 670 platelets; JAK 2: RDW 16.8

[milw532]

At monthly visits my dr. goes over lab results. Platelet count is 677 Only other value not in accepted range is RDW consistently at 16.6 I have ET JAK 2 and take only a baby aspirin. I listened to the you tube presentation today. Nurses told bout feeling the spleen to see if it is enlarged. My internist checked me just recently and said all is well. But the hemo has never done that. He says I am stable and all my other blood values are in the accepted range. Does blood work flag spleen problems/enlargement?

[Cja1956]

My hematologist checks me every time I go. I also had an ultrasound last year with my new hematologist to check my spleen. I don’t think you can tell anything from taking someone’s blood. Also if you have pain on your left side under your ribs, or if you feel early fullness after a meal, that could be a sign of an enlarged spleen.

[hunter5582]

Your spleen size should be monitored. Usually by palpation (feeling it from the outside) and occasionally by ultrasound. Significant splenomegaly does cause issues like pain and early fullness when eating. While it is unlikely you have significant enlargement based on what you describe, it would be best practice to establish a baseline of where your spleen size is. If you feel like you are not getting the level of care you want, perhaps you should see a doctor who specializes in MPNs. Many doctors, even hematologists, do not have the expertise to provide optimal care for MPNs. Here is a list mpnforum.com/list-hem./ ..