Neutrophils

[Littlefruitbat]

Does anyone know what causes neutrophils to drop? I am on Tocilizumab for my RA and should have had treatment today, but (not for the first time) I was unable to have it because my neutrophils had dropped too low. Does anyone else have the same problem?

[farm123]

Toc caused the same problem for me - had the first two treatments 4 weeks apart then had to have a 8 week gap because of low neutrophils and waiting for them to rise before third one but they dropped again and therefore had to change treatment. Farm

[Littlefruitbat in reply to farm123]

Can you tell me what treatment you have changed to? I think I have been on pretty much everything. They either don't work or mess up my bloods or the side effects are intolerable!

[farm123 in reply to Littlefruitbat]

I am unable to tolerate Methlytrexate, Sulphasalazine, Leuflonomide or Aziothioprine like you they either mess bloods or side effects.

Started 27 years ago on chloroquine before first 2 children then tried several DMARDs before being on gold for around 7 years finishing because of pregnancy.

Etanacept for 8 years, Humira 9 months, Rituximab one cycle, Tociluzimab 3 infusions over 4 months.

Started on Abatacept self inject once a week end of November last year which has helped but still not quite there so have tried adding in hydroxychloroquine 2 weeks ago so just waiting to see what will happen. Last couple of days have been better but it varies so much each week will have to wait and see whether this change is consistent or not. Everything crossed that it is a change for the better as have had enough the last 2 years and would like to be more normal. Farm

[Littlefruitbat]

Thank you. Good to know that there is still hope for me! I have been on and off Tocilizumab for about 2 years and when I am on it the effect is amazing! Trouble is when I have to come off it I feel so much worse. I.m back on steroids again now for a couple off weeks then more blood tests and hopefully back for more Tocilizumab. Hope you continue to improve - I'd say fingers crossed, but I can't remember the last time I was able to do that, so I'll just say good luck!