Connect with others who understand.

  •   Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  •   Real advice from people who’ve been there
  •   People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
All Resources Treatments A-Z Personal Assistant Help Center Crisis
Powered By
Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Have you ever had low WBC, RBC and platelets?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Utah

I had blood drawn yesterday at my IVIG and the doc had already messaged me through the portal and told me my liver enzymes are going up again. But nothing about the 3 I mentioned before. I did message him back in the portal.

January 28
 · 
Reactions

Answer Summary

Members shared experiences with low white blood cell counts, elevated liver enzymes, and anemia as common side effects of RA medications, with... Read more

Members shared experiences with low white blood cell counts, elevated liver enzymes, and anemia as common side effects of RA medications, with many having to discontinue treatments when liver enzymes climbed too high. Several members described practical management strategies including regular blood monitoring every few months, taking iron supplements for borderline anemia, staying home more often when WBC is low to avoid infections, and working closely with rheumatologists and immunologists who coordinate care. A recurring theme was frustration with doctors who don't always explain test results or seem overly concerned about borderline numbers, balanced with relief when physicians provide reassurance and commit to watching trends over time.

A myRAteam Member

Carol, my red blood cell count is almost always on the low side, borderline anemic half the time. Been like that for years at every blood draw. Nobody seems to do anything about it except recommend iron supplements which I take regularly.
My white blood cell is generally okay. If it's low, it's usually just after I've had some sort of infection requiring antibiotics or even just a virus.
Elevated liver enzymes generally mean I need to stop whatever RA med I'm on as it's almost always related to that.

I sometimes wonder why I bother doing every 4-month blood tests at all. Rheumatologist frequently never mentions results at all at next appointment. Quite often my PCP is the only one who discusses it.

January 28
myRAteam

Have you experienced low white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets with RA?

Yes, these blood count abnormalities can occur with rheumatoid arthritis. Low red blood cells (anemia) is commonly seen in people with RA. Low white blood cells (neutropenia) and low platelets (thrombocytopenia) can also happen, though Show Full Answer

Have you experienced low white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets with RA?

Yes, these blood count abnormalities can occur with rheumatoid arthritis. Low red blood cells (anemia) is commonly seen in people with RA. Low white blood cells (neutropenia) and low platelets (thrombocytopenia) can also happen, though they're less common.

In rare cases, a condition called Felty syndrome can cause low white blood cell counts along with an enlarged spleen in people with RA. This affects about 1-3% of people with rheumatoid arthritis and typically appears many years after diagnosis. Why regular blood monitoring matters

Since you're receiving IVIG and your doctor is already monitoring your liver enzymes, it's good that you messaged back about the other values. Regular blood tests are important when taking RA medications because they can affect blood cell counts.

Complete blood counts help monitor for abnormal levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets - all of which can be impacted by RA treatments. Your doctor will likely want to review these results with you and determine if any adjustments to your treatment plan are needed.

It's always appropriate to ask your doctor about any blood test results that concern you, especially if you notice changes from your previous labs.

January 28
A myRAteam Member

The doctors office called back today and said the doctor told them to tell me he's sure it's nothing to worry about. He's going to watch that and my liver level.

February 2
A myRAteam Member

Low platelets and elevated liver enzymes from medication

January 28
A myRAteam Member

Linda I have had to quit some RA meds because it has raised my liver enzymes.

January 29

Related Questions

View All

Is anyone here on extended release opiates but continue to have pain?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Staten Island, NY
March 28, 2018

Does RA effect a person's right foot first.?

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
St Louis, MO
March 21, 2018

When Should You Stop Working if You Have RA?
Can You Get Disability Benefits With RA?
3 Reasons To Avoid Sugar If You Have Rheumatoid Arthritis