blood tests

[Excelsior80]

hi, i have been on prednisolone for just over 3 1/2 months, all going well so far, my GP sends a 6 week prescription for each dose reduction and texts to check im still ok a few days afterwards, i just wondered how often blood tests are recommended? I had them before diagnosis and then just after starting treatment but not since, im on 9mg a day at the moment. Thank you 🙂

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Some have them fairly regularly, others don’t. Seems to be more of the latter since Covid…

Some like them for a reference. I had GCA [2012-2106] and initially was tested before every reduction, but once I got to lower doses it was about every 3-4 months.. But different times, and situation.

[Excelsior80 in reply to DorsetLady]

thank you ... i was wondering if i should ask for a check but sounds not unusual to go a few months ....

[PMRpro Ambassador]

A return of symptoms is a far more accurate way of assessing progress (or otherwise). ESR and CRP are very non-specific and only say there is inflammation or infection, not where it is. SO even a cold can send them up. A basic rule is that a single raised value without symptoms shouldn't result in a raising of the pred dose until it has been repeated a week or two later to see if there is a rising trend.

What is probably more important is checking other parameters including Hba1c, renal and liver profiles and a general check, Weight and BP should also be checked, at least 6 monthly, better would be 3 monthly.