Do I need a second opinion?

Posted by m09121999 @m09121999, Jul 2 2:16pm

I’m experiencing extreme fatigue, constant feeling of coming down with a cold. My Dad died from leukemia and a couple aunts. My kappa/lambda light chain is at 28.3 and absolute lymphocytes are 602. My primary care Doctor says this means nothing but doesn’t seem concerned about any of my symptoms. Should I follow up with a oncologist or are these results nothing to worry about?

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Lori, Volunteer Mentor | @loribmt | Jul 2 4:54pm

Hi @09121999. Most often, a temporarily high lymphocyte count is a normal effect of your body’s immune system working. Sometimes, lymphocyte levels are elevated because of a more serious condition and that’s what has you worried. I know what it’s like to be dismissed by my PCP with troubling symptoms. It leaves you very unsettled. Considering you have a familial history of leukemia it wouldn’t hurt to get a 2nd opinion from an hematologist oncologist…for you peace of mind if for nothing else.

Another thing to consider…doctors look for trends in numbers and may base a diagnosis or order more tests depending on an upward or downward progression of blood test results. It helps to paint a clearer picture of health. Do you have previous blood results to compare with these more recent tests?

jackiecarey | @jackiecarey | Jul 3 6:22am

With that family history I can only imagine you[re concerned. Please go to a hematologist at an academic center if you can otherwise a any Hematologist will tell you if you need to deep deeper, Make an appointment today. if for no other reason you may be worrying for no reason. ..Until then, if you can, try to distract yourself..Good luck and let us know how your getting on.

debhammel | @debhammel | Jul 3 7:11am

If you aren't comfortable with your PCP's opinion, then, yes, please seek a second opinion. A hematologist/oncologist would be able to best interpret your blood values and order other tests needed to determine if you have anything that requires treatment. Good luck!!

njhornung | @normahorn | Jul 3 7:32am

If for no other reason, these symptoms deserve being explored. Seeing a hematologist would seem to be in order.

"I’m experiencing extreme fatigue, constant feeling of coming down with a cold."

thomhorowitz | @thomhorowitz | Jul 6 1:32pm

In reply to @jackiecarey "With that family history I can only imagine you[re concerned. Please go to a hematologist at..." + (show)

Most all oncologist also label themselves hematologist. I have found some blood pathologists with a deeper interest in making hematological diagnosis. In so. Cal Tom Hirose is the best.

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