Hi everyone, it’s my first time posting. During a recent blood test my WBCs were raised at 20.4 and platelets 740. My GP wants me to retest in 2 weeks. The blood report also says Left shift, myelocytes, basophils seen. Would this not warrant a referral to Hematology? The doctor said if it is the same in 2 weeks then I will have scans first, but a referral to hematology won’t be needed. Did other people experience this? Is this correct? Thank you all!
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Hi @LisaRog welcome to our support forum and I think that I can hear your concern.
All tests are to rule conditions in or out and it is very difficult with such generic symptoms that might mean different things or nothing.
Perhaps GP’s are generalist and are there to do the groundwork and treating, if appropriate.
Consultants are specialist in their fields.
This is not a medical response but from my own experiences.
Perhaps have honest conversations with you GP about your fears and needs.
The Blood Cancer UK support line is there for you on 0808 2080 888
Please do let us know how you get on and really look after and be kind to yourself.
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Thank you so much for your response Erica, I really appreciate your reply.
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Dear @LisaRog,
Welcome to the forum, I am glad you found us!
It sounds like your GP is doing the right thing by repeating the bloods but I would imagine you are likely to need a referral to a Haematologist if the results stay the same. A haematologist will look into things in more detail.
At the next consultation I would encourage you to have an honest chat with your GP as Erica has suggested, perhaps asking what the next steps will be.
We would be very happy to talk things through with you if you would like to call us, our phoneline is open and you can reach us on 0808 2080 888.
Best Wishes,
Heidi J (Support Services Nurse)
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Thank you so much for your reply. Is it possible/ likely that my levels could drop to a normal level? The gp didn’t seem overly concerned……I however am very worried!
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Dear @LisaRog,
This is quite tricky to answer, lots of things can alter blood results. It is always recommended to repeat if something is out of range as it shows whether it was just a ‘blip’ or whether there is something persistent going on.
If the results remain our of range you may need further investigations to better understand why this is. It is completely normal to feel worried when something isn’t quite right with our health and this time in limbo can be very anxiety fuelling. Please be kind to yourself and try to find some gentle distractions.
We are very much here for you should you need us.
Best Wishes,
Heidi J (Support Services Nurse)
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I had high platelets in feburay 2024 was referred to haematology and was seen within two wèks. I had my scan and bone marrow biopsy within another week to determine my diagnosis.
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Thank you so much, this is really helpful to know.
I checked my blood film analysis results and I have very high basophils, neutrophils and other aspects all way above the highest reference range. I have contacted the GP to see if they can refer before the bloods, I’m just worried it’s all taking so long!
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Yes @LisaRog unfortunately it does all seem to take so long when you are in the middle of it.
I sometimes do not make a ‘patient patient’.
Look after yourself and let us know how you get on
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