Abnormal Blood Test Results in Children: What to Do Next? - Oncology

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When it comes to abnormal blood test results in children, it is essential to approach the situation with careful consideration and follow-up. In your case, the blood test results indicate elevated platelet counts (563 and 527) and a white blood cell (WBC) count of 13,790, which are above the normal ranges. These findings warrant further investigation, especially given your child's symptoms of frequent headaches, night sweats, and susceptibility to colds.


Understanding the Results
1. Platelet Count: Normal platelet counts typically range from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. Your child's platelet counts are significantly elevated, which could indicate several conditions. Thrombocytosis (high platelet count) can be reactive, meaning it may occur due to another condition such as infection, inflammation, or even iron deficiency. However, it can also be primary, related to bone marrow disorders.

2. White Blood Cell Count: The normal range for WBC is approximately 4,000 to 11,000 cells per microliter. A count of 13,790 suggests leukocytosis, which can occur due to infections, stress, inflammation, or more serious conditions like leukemia. The differential count shows a predominance of neutrophils (71.5%), which can indicate a response to infection or inflammation.


Next Steps
Given these abnormal results and your child's symptoms, it is crucial to follow the recommendation to consult a pediatric hematologist or an oncologist specializing in blood disorders. Here are some steps that may be taken during the follow-up:
1. Detailed Blood Tests: The pediatric hematologist may recommend additional blood tests, including a complete blood count (CBC) with differential, reticulocyte count, and possibly tests for inflammatory markers (like CRP or ESR). They may also consider tests for specific infections or autoimmune conditions.

2. Bone Marrow Aspiration: If the blood tests suggest a possible hematological disorder, a bone marrow aspiration may be necessary to examine the bone marrow directly. This procedure can help diagnose conditions like leukemia, myelodysplastic syndromes, or other bone marrow pathologies.

3. Imaging Studies: Depending on the findings, imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans may be warranted to check for any underlying conditions affecting the organs or lymphatic system.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your child's symptoms, including the frequency and severity of headaches, night sweats, and any other unusual signs. This information can be valuable for the healthcare provider in making a diagnosis.


Conclusion
While the initial results may seem alarming, it is important to remember that many conditions can cause elevated platelet and white blood cell counts, and not all of them are serious. The key is to follow up with a specialist who can provide a thorough evaluation and guide you through the necessary diagnostic steps. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve outcomes, so it is commendable that you are seeking further evaluation for your child. Please ensure that you maintain open communication with your healthcare provider and do not hesitate to ask questions or express concerns as you navigate this process.