Can Blood Counting Machines Be Wrong?

Posted by statmatics @statmatics, 13 hours ago

My wife's CBC blood counts have been low for 18 months (see chart). Is there any chance that the numbers are, in fact, false readings? The oncologists tell her she has MDS with only a short time to live, but she has no outward symptoms (no fatigue, shortness of breath, bruising, infections, etc.). She feels great. Her family has a history of blood disorders. Is there any hope?

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Lori, Volunteer Mentor | @loribmt | 7 hours ago

Hi @statmatics, If Rachel’s CBC numbers have been consistently false for 18 months, one would expect other patients to have inconsistent readings. So the chances of the results not being accurate across the board, without being questioned, would be remote. From my own experience, there are consistent differences between my local labs and my Mayo follow-ups. That’s because of different parameters with each lab. But the key is consistency within the same lab to detect trends in the numbers. These differences are very small.

Rachel has been fortunate to not have any symptoms with her MDS diagnosis for 18 months. If I remember correctly, she isn’t receiving treatment for the MDS except for medications to help promote red blood cells and neutrophils. By the graph you’ve kept, the meds seem to holding fairly well, but with a gradual downward trend? Have there been any changes in her blasts cells?

If there are changes at some point, have you considered the other options Rachel’s doctor suggested like the Vidaza and Venetoclax? These medications are lower intensity chemo options for older adults with MDS and AML. I know the word chemo has a bad connotation. While there can be some side effects it’s not the same aggressive chemo that I believe you’re concerned about. I think we’ve shared before (in previous replies) that there a number of members in the forum who are having good success with these meds and they’re fairly well tolerated.

You asked. “Is there any hope?” It’s important to always believe there is hope! With Rachel feeling as well as she is, I encourage you to live and enjoy life daily. I absolutely understand how all consuming having an underlying blood condition can be! I found diversion with hobbies, being outdoors ‘nature bathing’, exercising, meditating, daily affirmations, enjoying time with friends, family…all of that is important for refocusing and improving mental health and physical well-being. So I know you both can find this balance and stay focused on hope! ☺️

If you’re not certain that her doctor has an accurate diagnosis, have you considered a 2nd opinion?

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