Concerns Over Blood Test Results for 6-Year-Old Boy
A 6-year-old boy who stands taller than most of his peers is currently under observation. He is not on any medications and has no prior medical history. The blood test was conducted due to several symptoms he has been experiencing: yellow stools, abdominal discomfort following meals, and ongoing fatigue. While I await urgent guidance from my general practitioner to a specialist, I am seeking insights into his situation. Could this be a cause for serious concern? The blood work returned with the following results: - AST: 99 - ALT: within normal limits - Hemoglobin: 143 (at the upper limit of the normal range) - CRP: 46 - MCV: 76 All other parameters are reported to be within the standard reference range.
Answers (1)
2/14/2026, 11:40:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned about your son’s blood test results, especially in light of his symptoms of yellow stools, abdominal discomfort, and fatigue. The elevated AST level along with the other lab findings suggests that further investigation is warranted, but it may not necessarily indicate a serious issue.
Explanation:
- AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase): An elevated level often points to liver involvement, but it can also relate to muscle or heart issues. Since his ALT is normal, liver injury is less likely, but the AST should still be considered in the context of symptoms.
- Yellow stools: This may indicate issues with bile production, which could be linked to the liver or gallbladder.
- Fatigue and abdominal discomfort: These symptoms could be associated with various conditions, including digestive issues or even infections.
- CRP (C-Reactive Protein): A level of 46 suggests that there may be some inflammation or infection present in the body.
- MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume): A lower MCV can suggest potential anemia or other blood-related issues, which should be further evaluated.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close watch on your son's symptoms, particularly any changes in stool color or consistency, abdominal pain intensity, or energy levels. Note any new symptoms as well.
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Dietary Considerations: Ensure he is well-hydrated and consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Avoid foods that may exacerbate abdominal discomfort, such as greasy or spicy foods.
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Follow-Up Tests: When you see the specialist, they may recommend additional tests to evaluate liver function more fully or to check for other conditions related to his symptoms. This may include ultrasound imaging or specific viral hepatitis tests.
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Immediate Medical Action: If you notice any worrisome symptoms—like high fever, extreme fatigue, or severe abdominal pain—seek immediate medical attention.
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Communicate: Keep in close communication with your primary care provider and ensure that all findings and concerns are clearly discussed during the specialist visit.
This situation requires careful monitoring and follow-up, but with proper guidance from your healthcare providers, many conditions can be effectively managed. If you have further questions or need more specific advice, feel free to ask.
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