Request for Clarification on Blood Test Results
**Personal Details** - **Age:** 37 - **Gender:** Male - **Ethnicity:** Caucasian - **Height:** 5 ft 9 in - **Weight:** 180 lbs - **Current Medications:** None During a routine annual checkup, my physician conveyed that the lab results indicate healthy blood counts, and both kidney and liver functions are satisfactory. Nevertheless, upon reviewing the detailed results, I've noticed several markers flagged as "abnormal," with some designated as "high" or "low." While I have confidence in my doctor's assessment, I am seeking further insights about these anomalies to determine if further investigation is warranted. It's important to note that the blood samples were taken following a 16-hour fasting period. **COMPREHENSIVE METABOLIC PANEL** - **Sodium:** 140 mmol/L (Normal Range: 135-145) - **Potassium:** 3.8 mmol/L (Normal Range: 3.5-5) - **Chloride:** 106 mmol/L (Normal Range: 98-107) - **Carbon Dioxide:** 25 mmol/L (Normal Range: 21-32) - **Anion Gap:** 9 mmol/L (Normal Range: 6-16) - **Glucose:** 88 mg/dL (Normal Range: 70-110) - **BUN:** 9 mmol/L (Normal Range: 6-16) - **Creatinine:** 0.90 mg/dL (Normal Range: 0.6-1.30) - **BUN/Creatinine Ratio:** 13.3 (Normal Range: 11.7-13.9) - **Calcium:** 9.5 mg/dL (Normal Range: 8.5-10.1) - **Total Protein:** 7.3 g/dL (Normal Range: 6.4-8.2) - **Albumin:** 4.4 g/dL (Normal Range: 3.4-5.0) **Bilirubin Total:** 1.1 mg/dL HIGH (Normal Range: 0.0-1.0) - **AST:** 26 U/L (Normal Range: 7-34) - **ALT:** 13 U/L LOW (Normal Range: 16-62) - **ALP:** 57 U/L (Normal Range: 50-136) **CBC WITH DIFFERENTIAL** - **WBC:** 4.5 K/uL LOW (Normal: 5.0-10.0) - **RBC:** 4.85 M/uL (Normal: 4.3-5.7) - **Hemoglobin:** 15.2 g/dL (Normal: 14.0-18.0) - **Hematocrit:** 44.1% (Normal: 40-54) - **MCV:** 90.9 fL (Normal: 80-97) - **MCH:** 31.3 pg (Normal: 27-32) - **MCHC:** 34.5 g/dL (Normal: 32.0-36.0) - **RDW CV:** 12.3% (Normal: 11.5-14.5) - **RDW SD:** 41.4 fL (Normal: 35.1-43.9) - **Platelets:** 211 k/uL (Normal: 150-500) - **MPV:** 10 fL (Normal: 7-10) - **Absolute Neutrophil:** 2.2 K/uL LOW (Normal: 2.5-7.5) - **Absolute Lymphocyte:** 1.7 k/uL (Normal: 1.0-4.0) - **Absolute Monocyte:** 0.30 k/uL (Normal: 0.05-0.60) - **Absolute Eosinophil:** 0.20 k/uL (Normal: 0.05-0.50) - **Absolute Basophil:** 0.05 K/uL (Normal: 0.00-0.10) - **Neutrophil Percentage:** 49.6% LOW (Normal: 50.0-75.0) - **Lymphocyte Percentage:** 38.1% (Normal: 20.0-40.0) - **Monocyte Percentage:** 6.7% HIGH (Normal: 0.0-6.0) - **Eosinophil Percentage:** 4.5% (Normal: 0.0-6.0) - **Basophil Percentage:** 1.1% HIGH (Normal: 0.0-1.0) - **Hemoglobin A1c:** 4.9% (Normal: 4.5-6.2) With the outlined abnormalities, I would greatly appreciate guidance on whether these warrant additional testing or consultation. Thank you for your assistance!
Answers (1)
3/27/2025, 8:50:59 PM
OpenHealth AI
Your blood test results show a mix of normal and flagged values, particularly with bilirubin level being slightly high, and some low markers in the Complete Blood Count (CBC). It's completely understandable to seek more clarity regarding these results, especially since your overall health seems fine according to your doctor's assessment.
Key Points from Your Results:
- Bilirubin Total: Slightly elevated (1.1 mg/dL; normal range is 0.0-1.0 mg/dL). This could suggest slight liver function or blood breakdown issues.
- ALT Level: Low (13 U/L; normal is 16-62 U/L), which is typically not a concern unless drastically low.
- White Blood Cell (WBC) Count & Neutrophils: Both are slightly low. The WBC count (4.5 K/uL) is just below the normal range, and neutrophils (2.2 K/uL) are below the normal threshold.
- Monocyte Percentage & Basophil Percentage: These are slightly elevated.
Explanation:
- Bilirubin: This is a substance produced by the breakdown of red blood cells and is processed by the liver. A slight elevation may be benign, but can sometimes indicate the liver's ability to clear substances.
- Low WBC & Neutrophils: This may indicate a reduced capacity to fight infections, but could also be normal for some individuals, especially if you're not experiencing any related symptoms.
- Monocyte & Basophil Percentage: Minor increases are usually not worrisome; they can reflect various benign factors like allergies, infections, or inflammation.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any new or unusual symptoms, such as fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), or frequent infections.
-
Recheck Blood Work: Consider discussing with your doctor about repeating the blood tests after a few months to track changes in the flagged values.
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Lifestyle Considerations: Maintain a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and ensure you manage stress effectively as these can influence liver function and overall hematologic health.
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Communicate with Your Doctor: Since you are feeling unsure about these abnormalities:
- Revisit this list with your healthcare provider to see if further tests are needed, especially to elaborate on the bilirubin level or low WBC count.
Being proactive about your health is commendable, and discussing your concerns with a healthcare professional can help clarify the next best steps specific to your needs. Please feel free to reach out if you need further clarification or assistance!
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