Metabolic Panel Tests

[yibberat]

I have been looking at my Metabolic Panel blood test results over the last couple years and two results stood out in a way that I would prefer them to sit down. I was wondering whether either of these results might have something to do with PV or MPN's.

The first is Alkaline Phosphatase. That rose from 138 U/L (4 years ago when I had my stroke) to 175 a couple months ago. Even the 138 is at the high limits but my GP was concerned that it might be non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. I have not seen my GP since the new 175 results. I have read however that it can also be a sign of bone disorders. Or PV/MPN?

The second is BUN or blood urea nitrogen. Which rose from 14 mg/dl (well within a good range) to 27 over the course of this last year or so. The standard explanation is that I may be eating too much protein and it is creating kidney problems - but with PV/MPN's I no longer settle for standard explanations. Could this be a precursor to gout or a uric acid problem?

All my other results from the metabolic panels are in a comfortable range. And while I am overweight, I am not diabetic or pre-diabetic though I probably have become too carb-dependent and probably a bit insulin resistant.

As I will soon be seeing both my GP and my hematologist, I would be very interested in understanding the experiences of others here re how/whether MPN's and esp PV can affect these blood tests.

Jeff

[hunter5582]

There are too many factors in play to give meaningful feedback. The answer depends on what treatment you are using as well as what other medical issues are in evidence.

I experienced an elevation in Liver Function Tests to 3X/ULN due to my treatment with Besremi. This included a rise in ALP as you are reporting. I was able to manage this with a daily dose of Milk Thistle extract.

There are medications like hydroxyurea that can cause issues with uric acid. We can also see a rise in uric acid due to the PV. Aging and reduced kidney function can also be an issue.

There are too many potential factors to even suggest what may be going on. You need an assessment from a MPN Specialist (not just a regular hematologist) to get the best answer to your questions. You are quite right that when one is dealing with a MPN and its treatment effects the standard answer is not necessarily correct. You need expert input to assess what is going on.

Please do let us know what you learn and how you get on.