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Can a transplant patient have normal WBC and Neutrophil counts?
Transplants | Last Active: Jul 11, 2021 | Replies (13)Comment receiving replies
Thank you again Lori! My main concern is trying to understand the process for avoiding over-immune suppression (at the same time avoiding rejection). I was happy there was a scientific answer for balancing tacronlimis (Envarsus XR), using a blood test, but disappointed that there wasn't an objective blood test for balancing the Cellcept level. The good news is, one of our fabulous Mayo Connect family members gave me the test names that I was looking for! So, I am going to ask my Coordinator about adding these blood tests to my next lab visit. I have on-going neutropenia and leukopenia and I just recovered from CMV, so I am super sensitive about over- immune suppression. How long has it been since your transplant? I am officially at one year!
Replies to "Thank you again Lori! My main concern is trying to understand the process for avoiding over-immune..."
@hello1234 You’re most welcome. I’ve learned so much about the immune system over the past 2 years. It’s vital to our existence and incredible in complexity. It can defend us or turn on us…it’s a fine line.
I can certainly understand your wanting to avoid being overly immuno compromised. It would surprise me if your team isn’t monitoring the Cellcept level in your blood. It might not be directly through the tests you mentioned if they haven’t shown up on your procedures your medical records. But it would include the usual CBC and a chemistry panel of electrolytes, BUN creatinine, glucose, ALT, AST, bilirubin, and amylase, possibly an LDH. Together they will be telltale signs of how well well your new kidney is functioning, check for tissue damage and if there’s any signs of inflammation or rejection. But definitely ask and express your concerns to your transplant team. They are your best source of advice for your personal transplant story.
Do you have monthly tests run? Initially I’m guessing they were more frequent.
Did you have to take any medication for the CMV?
Has your Cellcept been adjusted since the initial dosage at the time of transplant?
Congratulations on that all important and most difficult first year! It’s easy to feel overwhelmed but as time passes you’ll have less concern as you settle into that new sense of normalcy. Things won’t ever be exactly the same as life before transplant, but we have the ability to accept, adapt and move on!
Last week I celebrated my 2nd rebirth day and feeling ‘fabulous dah-ling’…and grateful beyond words. Monday I head back to Mayo for all my birthday tests! LOL There’s a bday gift…full day of labs, tests, biopsies, vaccinations and appointments.😂
My cancer and subsequent BMT tale hasn’t been without some challenges but I can tell you it’s been one incredible journey and every day is a gift. I’m sure you feel the same way! We got a second chance. ☺️
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Congrats on your transplant anniversary!