@tml, I’m sending a virtual hug. It is so worrisome when handed a set of lab results without any explanation. In my situation, for years the GI nurse would make a comment on my labs: “they are high today” And, luckily, my doctor would look at them, shrug, and say, “Of course they’re high. You have liver disease, they’re supposed to be high.” I felt better.
I hope that you will get more than formation from the doctor. When do you see him again?

Hello @tml From experience, looking at blood numbers can really ramp up the anxiety. I can’t tell you how many times I’d look at my numbers, ( I do know what they mean) and I’d still be a little freaked out. Then my doctor would wave his hand and say ‘That’s a non-issue. Those numbers are fine considering the medication you’re on. They’ll reverse. “

Especially when we’re going through treatments, the chemistry of our bodies can be affected by the medications with large fluctuations in numbers. Some numbers such as LDH can become elevated either with tissue damage occurring OR simply showing the aftermath of cell damage which could even be cancer cells being flushed out. I’m not saying that’s what’s happening in your case. Just letting you know a scenario that, when taken out of context, you won’t understand the numbers.
Anyway, it’s not unusual when you’re on strong medications, and certainly if your system is being flushed, to have all your blood numbers skewed. I’m not sure how meaningful any of that would be at this point. Doctors will want a CBC to make sure your liver and kidneys are functioning and not taking a hit.
It’s in your best interest to not be giving yourself even more anxiety over these numbers. Remember you weren’t going to look! ☺️
Are you still feeling fairly well during treatment?

@tml I echo what @loribmt and @rosemarya have already said to you. I get labwork every month at the cancer center, and actually have made a spreadsheet to look at my results side-by-side. They are numbers on a page. The dr is the one who ties them all together as it relates to my medication and well-being. Like Lori, I do know what the numbers mean, but there are nuances that can make things vary. Focus instead on how you feel. You promised yourself to not dwell on the numbers, and you are waiting for the results of the tests as it relates to your multiple myeloma!

What have you found today to be joyful and grateful for?
Ginger