Hi Amer. sorry to read your post. I think this sort of thing is perhaps to do with the MTX. What do they suggest happens now. Are they keeping an eye on it for now. People will come on and advise. I know this does happen sometimes. Best wishes. Autumm

Hi Autumn, well they said get another blood test in 4 weeks time but no further information was offered. I will then have to go back to the doctor - I don't know whether to start to taper my steroids or not? Sometimes they are not too helpful with information.

Hi Amber. Might be a good idea to ask them about the taper. They are obviously waiting to see if any changes in the blood work in four weeks. Maybe you should ask your GP to contact them for advice. I think they should be offering you a bit more support than this. Do they have a Rheumatology helpline number that you can ring leave a message and someone get back with answers. If not, try ringing the Consultants Secretary and ask her to pass on your questions. Sorry you are having to deal with this as well. I fid have problems with the Azathioprine at the beginning when my lab work was off. He stopped and started it a bit and fiddled about with the dose to get it right fir me but I did nit taper when he was sorting it all out. Autumm

Hi Amberhere, WBC are shown in different ways on a blood test. I used to think my WBC were low too. I learned WBC are shown in several ways on a blood test. If your neutrophils are normal to high then that is a WBC too. WBC may show low in one area and high in another indication too.

My blood tests will show normal scores except for lymphocytes which are always low. Low lymphs means a susceptibility for infections.

If something is out of range on my blood tests then I will discuss the meaning with the doctor. My meds might need an adjustment up or down due to blood work scores too. It is important to always discuss blood work results with the doctor. My doctor will often call me when results come back too. I will also call my doctor when I have any questions.

Your meds can definitely effect blood work scores. Find out if you need an adjustment in dosages too.

Remember that it is your health. Chase that doctor down and get those questions answered because that is why you pay the big money!

Good Luck!

Hi again, I will ring the Rhemy secretary tomorrow and ask her to have a word with the Consultant - my bloodwork results only go to the Doctor and not the hospital at the moment but I didn't want to leave it another 4 weeks before I get results again and then he decides what action to take. Although it is 7.6 count from 9.4 over the past 8 weeks, I don't know if that is really low or not??

Hi Amber. Its difficult fir anyone except your Rheumatologist to know what is the right fit of bloods and Meds for you. Please get in touch with em tomorrow, have your questions ready on a bit of paper. All the best. Autumm

Hi again, just an update - I spoke to Rheumy O/T today who advised it is quite possibly the Prednisone that is causing the problem. They are not over concerned about it and advised the 4 week blood test. Thanks for your comments.

Hi Amber. That is good news. I am glad you did not have to wait and worry. With a bit of luck the Pred will be behind you in a while. All the best to you. Autumm

Glad you called the rheumy, Amber. It's always best to put our concerns to rest. Hope your next blood work is improved. Best wishes.