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What Does Low WBC Count Indicate?

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Posted on Tue, 4 Nov 2014
Question: I was getting routine bloodwork and my wbc count came back low (2.4 K/uL) so I had to have it rechecked a week and a half later and it was still low (2.7 K/uL). My segmented neutrophil % was also low (37%), lymphocyte % high (48%) and monocyte % high (14%). I was referred to a hematologist. He was convinced it was the Amitryptiline I was on and advised me to stop taking it and then come in on Oct 31st to get retested. The Amitriptyline is for my post infectious IBS (I had amoebic dysentery 3 years ago). I saw my GI Monday and he was positive it wasn't the Amitriptyline (I am also on Zolfran as needed, Paxil 15 mg, Ativan 1mg 3x, and Minipress (prozosin)..I've been on these meds for over 1 year...less than that for the Amitryptiline). Well I checked my records today and the GI talked with the hematologist and the hematologist said I can start the Amitriptyline again (the dr wrote that he called me and told me this which did not happen so I didn't get to ask him any questions). I'm so confused. The hematologist seemed so sure that was the problem. The only other health issues beside ibs is that lately I've had some headaches and been smelling smoke when there isn't any there, plus I have some congestion but it's more head congestion rather than chest (I see a ENT mon). I'm also a little more nauseated lately usually with the headaches, a little tired, and cold a lot, sometimes I get a little clammy at night. But nothing super severe. If it's not the meds what would be causing the low WBC count? Could it be something serious? If it is still low on the 31st what further steps might the doctor take? Thank you.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Monish De (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
bone marrow test

Detailed Answer:
Hi

The low WBC count in your case could be due to Leukemia.

I will advise you to do a bone marrow test.

In this test a sample of bone marrow is removed using a long, thin needle from your hip bone. The sample is sent to a laboratory to look for leukemia cells.

For headache you can take paracetamol tablets twice daily after food and for nausea you can take domperidone tablets twice daily before food with your doctors advise.

Regards

De De
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Monish De (14 hours later)
If it was leukemia would I have other symptoms?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Monish De (9 hours later)
Brief Answer:
fatigue

Detailed Answer:
Hi

If it is leukemia then you have symptoms such as persistent fatigue, fever or chills, unexplained weight loss and swollen lymph nodes.
Regards
Dr de
Note: For further queries related to kidney problems Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
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Answered by
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Dr. Monish De

Oncologist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 2229 Questions

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What Does Low WBC Count Indicate?

Brief Answer: bone marrow test Detailed Answer: Hi The low WBC count in your case could be due to Leukemia. I will advise you to do a bone marrow test. In this test a sample of bone marrow is removed using a long, thin needle from your hip bone. The sample is sent to a laboratory to look for leukemia cells. For headache you can take paracetamol tablets twice daily after food and for nausea you can take domperidone tablets twice daily before food with your doctors advise. Regards De De