Count

Today is Kang's blood test + checkup again. The platelet count today is 61, up from the 46 the last time. But a week after the last checkup, he had a swell near his ear and I took no chance and brought him in straight for blood test, it was 72, so today's count can be considered a drop.

So what does it mean? I asked Dr many questions...

1. What if we just leave it?
As long as it's more than 50, it is not threatening if he's physically ok, no medication needed, just monitor. So, monthly blood test. If it's less than 50 persistently, it may be a sign of leukaemia and will need bone marrow blood test.

2. His red/white blood cells are ok right?
Yes, throughout all these tests, they are ok, that's why I'm not worried that it will be leukaemia.

3. Can steriods be prescribed without a bone marrow blood test?
If steriods are prescribed without this blood test and if it's really leukaemia, the steriods may hinder the discovery of leukaemia and treatment delayed.

4. If go on steriods, how long does he have to take?
It depends...sometime a dose may work, sometimes longer.

5. If it's a long time, what are the effects?
Steriods may slow his growth. That's why they would usually prescribe the lowest possible dosage if ongoing for a long time.

6. So what is it and how come the count has been fluctuating at this kind of level?
Looks like it's likely chronic.

7. Huh? Chronic? How come?
Usually chronic is defined as having the condition for 6 months and more. In his case, it's been about 4 months, it may become chronic.

8. Then what do we do if it's chronic?
Monitor if it's more than 50. Otherwise it would be that blood test and steriods. But chronic can still get well.

9. How long will it take?
Can't tell, it all depends on his body. So I still need to see you next month.

So, we just have to keep monitoring. How I miss the 3-digit reading...