Methotrexate - abnormal blood test

[Vespa123]

Hi everyone,

Bit of a weird one, I started methotrexate a couple of months ago and over the course of my last two blood tests my white blood cell count has increased to abnormal levels. I’ve read that Methotrexate can cause low WBC count but not an increase so I’m very confused! Has anyone else had anything similar happen?

thank you

Sarah

[ShannonB]

(Following) I am sorry to see this. I’m new to mtx too and also am struggling with my bloods— different issues every month (high B12, CRP 51, High Neutrophils Low Lymphocytes…). I asked here about some of these and got an impression they often settle down but it’s worrying, isn’t it? How responsive is your rheumatology team? Mine’s not great but I have written to them to ask to look at all of the past few months.

On a positive note it seems to be helping some of my symptoms. Hope that’s true for you too.

[Vespa123 in reply to ShannonB]

thanks Shannon, yes it is worrying especially as I don’t have any symptoms of an infection so I’m really curious as to what’s causing the increase! I’m seeing my Rheumatologist on Thursday so will see what she says then! X

[soul22]

Hi. I'm.on methotrexate

a raised white blood cell count

raised neutrophils count with lowered lymphocytes count

these results indicate a infection the lowered lymphocytes count means methotrexate is suppressing your immune system which its supposed to.

however there's a safe level and a not safe level

signs of infection

fever

sleeping more

shivering

pain that is worsening depending on where infection is.

always query anything abnormal hope that helps hope helps

[Ilse70]

Dear Vespa. I have been on Methotrexate now since 2015 and I have only been improving year after year. This year was the first year where it all appeared normal and wasn't bouncing from high to low. Most of us don't understand that everything is changing all the time and we have to compensate for that in our minds. I tested it. You can go for blood test now and again in 1 months time and see the different readings (I did this for 2 yrs as I was questioning myself constantly). I now only go once every 6 months and don't concentrate on the results, just on how I am doing day to day. Contact me again if you have anymore questions.

[ResidentNZ]

Hi, raised white blood count , and maybe increased CRP can suggest you are fighting a viral infection.