Blood test results

[BossyB]

Hi

I have had my 1st blood test results thru the post following frst 2weeks on MTX but don't hav clue wh at they all mean. Only thing I can really tell is th at each result stats not abnormal. Any ideas how I can compare what they should be

[slatch]

Hi Debbie, you should have been given a blood test book by your rheumy, and your gp surgery fill it in after each test for you.

The book explains all the tests and what the "normal" levels for each are, so you can see what is going on and compare the results test on test.

The booklet is purple and white.

Hope this helps,

Andy

[bpeal1]

Hello

I copied and saved this from Lyn-W's post (not sure if it was on here or the members forum). I now regurlarly refer to it when I get my blood test results.

Hb Haemaglobin - the oxygen carrying protein pigment in the blood, and specifically in the red blood cells. Normal values 11.5-18

(low Hb can be caused by anaemia)

WBC - White blood cells. . These increase in number due to infection. Normal values 4.0-11.0

Platelets - An irregular disc shaped element in the blood that assists in blood clotting. Normal values 150-400

Lymphocytes - A small white blood cell that plays a large role in defending the body against disease. They are responsible for immune responses. Normal values 1.0-3.0

Neutrophils - type of white blood cell filled with enzymes used to kill and digest micro-organisms. Normal values 2.0-7.0

ALT- (Alanine transaminase) An enzyme normally present in the liver and heart cells that is released into the bloodstream when the liver or heart is damaged. Rising ALT levels may indicate liver damage. Normal values 7-56

AST - (Aspartate aminotransferase) measures the amount of this enzyme in the blood. AST is normally found in red blood cells, liver, heart, muscle tissue, pancreas, and kidneys. Low levels are found in the blood. When an organ such as the liver is diseased or damaged, additional AST is released into the bloodstream increasing the levels. Normal values7-40

ALK Phos - An enzyme made in the liver which which is usually released into the blood during injury. Abnormally high levels may indicate liver damage. Some RA patients have high levels due to inflammation. Normal values 30-125

CRP - C-Reactive Protein. A plasma protein that rises in the blood with the inflammation of RA. Normal values <6

ESR - Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate. A blood test that detects and monitors inflammation in the body. The rate increases with more inflammation. Normal values 1-7 (but can vary with individuals)

I hope it helps you.

Becky

[Beth58 in reply to bpeal1]

This is great, but It's worth baring in mind in different labs normal values may differ sightly and there are other tests carried out depending on the medications you take... Also, results vary depending on Male/Female and Age.

This link shows all test values

medicinenet.com/complete_bl...

[BossyB]

Thanks for the detailed response, i will speak to Rheumy nurse next week as they stated not abnormal but not sure what they all mean.

[SarahKate-NRAS]

Hi Debbie50

As Beth58 mentioned, different laboratories will use different 'reference ranges' for their clinical test results so it is important to consider your results within the context of your personal circumstances, and a medical professional should be able to explain the results to you fully.

This is explained very well on a website called labtestsonline.org.uk:

labtestsonline.org.uk/under...

Kind regards

Sarah Kate

NRAS Helpline