Posts by Nicholas Myers

Ashley Watson said:Alright, here’s how it looks (immunoassay):
Hepatitis Bs antibody... 35 mUI/ml. Positive.
If I recall correctly, I’ve been vaccinated against hepatitis.

Thanks for the reply!

My apologies, I missed the B.s Reading through the question, everything looks solid. It seems the vaccination was successful. My answer to what you asked in my previous post remains unchanged.

Once again, my apologies for that hasty assumption regarding the miscopied lab results.

Hello.🙂

Alexander Williams5 said:Hello!
Male.
Could you please explain why these blood work values are abnormal? I am currently taking blood pressure medication: ISOPTIN 3x180, LIPEX, ASPERIN 100, NEXIUM 20mg, and MODURETIC.

MCV 79.4 REF ( 80 – 94 )
MCH 26.1 REF ( 27 – 34 )
MONO 12.9 REF ( 2 - 12 )
NEUT 1.8 REF ( 2.0 - 6.5 )
LYMPH 1.0 REF ( 1.2 - 3.4 )

L.P.

Dear Alexander Williams5,

You haven't provided enough context, and without a physical exam, interpreting isolated lab results like this is difficult.

MCV and MCH are parameters related to erythrocytes (red blood cells). They are interpreted alongside the red blood cell count and hemoglobin concentration. If your red blood cell count and hemoglobin are within normal ranges (which I can't confirm since you didn't list them), these deviations are very minor—practically normal.

Monocytes, which play a key role in fighting infection, are indeed slightly elevated, but only in percentage. The real question is their absolute number—whether they are truly high or if they just appear high because other cell types (neutrophils and leukocytes) have dropped. This needs to be determined based on the total white blood cell count.

The neutrophil and lymphocyte counts are low in absolute terms. It’s slight, but still a drop.

Overall, there are some deviations here. They are small, but present. Speculating on the cause is difficult. Since I have no clinical history for you and haven't examined you, it would be presumptuous to suggest a specific reason.

Consult with your primary care physician. If you aren't experiencing any symptoms and your clinical status is fine, they will likely want to repeat the tests in 2 to 4 weeks to compare the new numbers against the old ones before making a conclusion.

Best regards. 🙂

Alexander Williams5 said:I had hepatitis markers tested (I am pregnant)
everything came back negative except for the hepatitis Bs antibody; the value is somewhere around 35... what should that mean?

Dear Michael Jones23,

If you are referring to the anti-HBs titer (I'm assuming this based on your description, as it wasn't transcribed perfectly from the report) and if you have been vaccinated against Hepatitis B (this is a crucial factor), then a result of 35 IU/L indicates that the vaccination has provided you with effective protection against Hepatitis B.

Regardless, your doctors always have the final word.

Best regards. 🙂

wanderingpilot9 said:Hello there.
Picked up my lab results today. Still PAF.

Glucose levels look fine, and cholesterol is steady too—but that’s exactly why I’m concerned.
HDL cholesterol at 1.12 (normal range 4.4–6.4). Low.
LDL cholesterol at 4. (Reference range: 4.4–6.4).
Triglycerides 2.35 (Normal range: 4.4–6.4).

Can someone explain what this might be? My blood work and sedimentation levels are fine—everything is within the normal range. Lately, I’ve actually been eating quite a bit of pork and generally heavier meals while keeping sweets to a minimum, so I was honestly hoping these values would show an increase.
Besides, my doctor is young and clearly lacks experience, so I want to be fully prepared before my next appointment.

Thanks in advance for the help.

The reference values you listed next to HDL, LDL, and triglycerides aren't accurate.

Basically, if you aren't dealing with heart disease, vascular issues, or diabetes, the target ranges look like this:

Total cholesterol is sitting under 100 mg/dL.

LDL cholesterol is sitting under 60 mg/dL.

For men, HDL cholesterol should be above 1 mmol/L, while for women, you’re looking at a target higher than 1.2 mmol/L.

Triglycerides are sitting below 1.7 mmol/L.

For patients managing heart disease, vascular issues, or diabetes, target values are generally set lower.

Looking at these numbers, it’s clear you’re seeing some mild deviations from the target ranges. Most likely, your doctor will suggest lifestyle adjustments to get everything back on track. We're talking dietary tweaks, quitting smoking if that's a habit, hitting at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily, and managing weight if necessary. It's about fine-tuning the basics.

Stay persistent. By adjusting your lifestyle and hitting those target lipid levels, you're actively lowering your risk of cardiovascular disease. It’s a numbers game, and the math works in your favor.

Hello. 👍

To whom it may concern,

The symptoms could point toward weakness—specifically paresis—in an extraocular muscle. However, without a clinical evaluation, it’s impossible to determine if that's actually what's happening or if there's some other underlying cause for the double vision.

You'll need a full ophthalmology exam and a specialized strabology assessment (essentially seeing a specialist focused on strabismus and pediatric ophthalmology). A Hess-Lancaster test should definitely be part of that diagnostic process.

I'd recommend finding an ophthalmology clinic that includes a dedicated strabology clinic on-site. You should start by asking your primary care physician for a referral to this specific type of specialist.

Olivia Cooper272 said:Hello, here is another pregnant woman facing some confusing blood work results. I would appreciate any help or insight.

Leukocytes at 11.0 (Ref: 3.4-10.0). Slightly elevated.

Blood diff.
Segmented: 74.1 (44.0-72.0)
eosinophil 7.1 (0.0-7.0)
Lymphocytes 11.9 (20.0-46.0). Low.

Urinalysis. Basic stuff, really. Just checking the chemistry of what’s coming out of the system.

Color: yellow.
Looks dusty.
pH — acidic (4.6-7.5)
Nitrites: negative. (0)

Urinary sediment. It’s one of those clinical terms that sounds more intimidating than it actually is, much like looking at a complex blueprint before you understand the architecture. Essentially, we're talking about the solid components—the "debris," if you will—that settle at the bottom of a urine sample after it's been spun down in a centrifuge. Think of it like a glass of water left out in a dusty room; eventually, the particles settle at the base. In a medical context, we're looking for specific indicators: red blood cells, white blood cells, bacteria, crystals, or even epithelial cells. If the report shows an elevated number of leukocytes or red blood cells, it’s often a signal from the body that something is agitated—perhaps an infection or inflammation. Finding crystals might suggest a tendency toward stones, similar to how mineral buildup affects old plumbing. It isn't a diagnosis in itself, but rather a piece of the puzzle. One piece doesn't show the whole picture, but you can't finish the puzzle without it. Always review these findings with a physician to see how they fit into the broader clinical landscape.

red blood cells 3-5
leukocytes 5-10
A bit of epithelial irritation. Minor stuff.
A bit of bacteria. Just a little.
It helps a little.

Should I see a hematologist or what?
Thanks.

Dear Olivia Cooper272,

Regarding the blood work you provided—and I’m strictly looking at the numbers you listed here—everything looks perfectly normal given that you're pregnant. It’s quite common for things to shift during pregnancy. You typically see a slight bump in leukocytes, an increase in the neutrophil percentage in the differential, and a minor rise in eosinophils. Your results follow that pattern exactly.

Regarding those urine results—what you’ve shared isn't anything alarming or dramatic. It's just a slightly elevated leukocyte count and a few red blood cells here and there. Given that you're pregnant, your doctor will likely want to order a urine culture just to be safe and rule out any potential infection.

I noticed a critical parameter is missing from this pregnancy urine analysis: protein. A standard dipstick test should have covered this. I’m assuming your results came back clear, which is why you didn't mention them, but it's worth noting that trace amounts can often show up in pregnant women. Usually, a result marked as "0" or "trace" is perfectly normal. However, seeing one or more plus signs (+/++/+++/++++) indicates elevated protein levels in the urine.

To wrap things up: take these results to your primary physician. Since they have the full picture of your medical history, they are the only ones truly qualified to interpret this data and decide on the next steps.

Greetings. 🙂

Alex Foster6 said:Maybe my question doesn't quite fit this thread, but I wasn't sure where else to ask.🤷
I’ve been dealing with an ear infection since Monday. It started with sharp pain and immediate discharge—honestly, it's been pretty miserable. I went to see my doctor and was prescribed an antibiotic called Xorimax, but the pain and symptoms haven't budged at all. I read online that acute infections like this usually wrap up in two or three days, but I’m still feeling just as bad. Does anyone know how long this might actually drag on, or if there’s anything else I can do to get some relief?
Thanks.🙂

Most people start seeing an improvement within 48 to 72 hours after beginning antibiotics. It’s like waiting for a slow engine to turn over; you shouldn't expect instant results, but the momentum should pick up by the third day.

Since nothing seems to be changing on your end—and considering you mentioned that discharge from the ear—you really need to go back for a thorough checkup. It’s time to have a doctor take a hard look at the diagnosis and, frankly, pivot the treatment plan entirely.

Make sure you follow up with your doctor!

Wishing you all the best. Cheers. 👍

Alex Foster6 said:Hello.
I need some help here. Is it actually normal to have slightly elevated white blood cell counts during pregnancy? Actually, I know that’s perfectly normal. 🙂But I’m still looking for the follow-up. What comes next? And what about their neutrophils—and those low lymphocytes?
I'm 30. Currently in my 33rd week of pregnancy. Here are the lab results: Lkc 9.9 (3.4-9.7), NEU 78.5 (44-72), LYM 14.2 (20-46), MONO 6.1 (2-12), EOS 0.7 (0-7), BASO 0.5 (0-1).
Thanks in advance! 🙂

It’s pretty common during pregnancy to see a slight bump in white blood cell counts. You might also notice an increase in the neutrophil percentage in a differential blood count; that’s typically just attributed to the influence of estrogen.

I’d say this report looks clean, but there’s a catch. Only your gynecologist—the one who actually sees the full picture and has all your other labs on hand—can properly interpret what this means for you. Please, make sure you consult with them.

When looking for indicators of potential inflammation during pregnancy, don't just fixate on the total leukocyte count or the percentage of specific cell types. In my view, the percentage of non-segmented granulocytes and the CRP levels carry significantly more weight.

Wishing you and your baby all the best. Cheers. 🙂

I’ll take this opportunity to wish all the members a happy New Year. Here's to 2011—may it bring everyone plenty of good health. 👍

Samuel Torres34 said:Thanks for the input, Felix the Cat.

The reference range for MPV is 6.8 - 10.5, but mine shows 5.5.

Platelets 321,
leukocytes (6.5);
erythrocytes (4.3);
hemoglobin (15);
hematocrit (41.10);
MCV (94.3);
platelets (321);
RDW (10.6)

That’s everything. 🙂

The results suggest the platelets (blood clotting cells) are slightly smaller in volume, though I don't think it carries much weight. As long as the platelet count itself is normal and you aren't experiencing issues like spontaneous bleeding or bruising, an MPV value doesn't mean much unless it's wildly out of line—which isn't the case here.

As for the abdominal pain, your doctors will need to dig deeper into that.

Essentially, these numbers look fine. If your physicians feel it's necessary, you could always re-run the panel in, say, three months.

Be sure to consult with your medical team; they have the full picture of your history and are best equipped to interpret these trends.

Best regards and take care.👍

Hannah Campbell20 said:Hello, everyone.

I'm 30 and planning to conceive for the first time. However, after seeing my blood work, my gynecologist didn't exactly give me the green light, so I'm looking for some outside perspectives here. My levels are running a bit lower than the standard range, though I suspect that’s just because heavy periods—which would hopefully stop once I'm pregnant—are draining my reserves.

Red blood cells at 3.77.
Hemoglobin at 85. That’s low. Not exactly where you want to be.
Hematocrit... 0.292.
MCV... 77.5.
MCH... 22.5.
MCHC........... 291
Leukocytes... 7.6.

Many thanks in advance. 🙂

To whom it may concern,

Looking at the results provided, it’s clear you're dealing with moderate anemia. If we were to categorize anemia into three stages—mild, moderate, and severe—these numbers aren't just "slightly below average." They aren't mild. This falls squarely into the moderate category.

The results also point toward microcytic anemia. This could be indicative of iron-deficiency anemia, which might quite possibly be a downstream effect of heavy menstrual cycles.

I’m not sure if you’ve managed to pin down the underlying cause of these heavy bleeds that triggered the anemia. I assume you have, given that you're under a gynecologist's care. Heavy bleeding like this isn't exactly "normal," and frankly, the idea that some women just naturally deal with heavier flows isn't an acceptable explanation.

I wouldn't go as far as saying you're being reckless, but here is the bottom line: since you’re planning to get pregnant, trying to conceive with anemia like this isn't exactly a smart move. I have to agree with your OB-GYN on this one.

My take? You really ought to get that anemia under control as much as possible before even considering pregnancy. It’s common knowledge that women who are already anemic before conceiving face a higher risk of developing more severe forms of the condition, which naturally leads to potential complications during pregnancy. Better to fix the foundation first.

Make sure you consult with your doctors regarding treatment and managing anemia.

Greetings. 🙂

Hannah Campbell20 said:I had blood work and a urine sample taken yesterday. Everything came back normal, except for the urinalysis, which shows positive for erythrocyte / Hb. It also mentions some bacteria and a little bit of mucus. About two months ago, I dealt with a bladder infection that cleared up after a course of pills, so I'm wondering what this could be. I’ve never seen blood in my urine before—just those erythrocytes on the report. What does that actually mean? I can't see my doctor for another three days, and a friend suggested it might be pregnancy, though I haven't found anything to support that online. I'm 18, if that matters.

silentlynx26,

Please provide the complete urinalysis results—both the physical-chemical dipstick assessment via Test-trak Spec. and the microscopic sediment examination.

I have no idea why an erythrocyte finding in a urine test would suggest pregnancy. I can't fathom where your friend is getting that logic from.

Also, a crucial detail—please excuse my bluntness here—is whether the urine sample was provided during menstruation, or immediately before or after it.

Hannah Campbell20 said:Hi everyone,

I’m 21. Due to some occasional abdominal pain, I went to see my doctor, who referred me for blood work. Here are the results:

MCHC is slightly elevated at 360, while MCH is sitting right on the edge at 33.9.
MPV is under 5.5.

White blood cell count, red blood cell count, platelets, and hemoglobin are all within range—right in the middle of the pack. AST and ALT look normal as well.

What’s the deal with high MCHM and low MPV?

MCH and MCHC are measurements pertaining to red blood cells, interpreted in relation to the total erythrocyte count and hemoglobin concentration. Since you mentioned their values fall within the reference range—and given that the MCHC is only negligibly off—one could call this a clean result.👍

MPV refers to the mean platelet volume, and it really only makes sense when you look at it alongside the actual platelet count—which you mentioned is within the normal range. Since lab standards vary quite a bit—one lab might set the lower limit at 6.0 fL while another goes up to 7.0 fL or even higher—it would be helpful if you could include the specific reference ranges used by your lab. Also, please list the exact platelet count so we can see just how much that MPV value is actually deviating from the norm.

Dear otter,

To better understand what you’re experiencing, please follow these steps.

1. First, look at a screen—your computer monitor, TV, or even an object in the room—using both eyes. Note if you see any double vision.

2. Next, close your left eye and look only with your right eye. Check again for any doubling.

3. Finally, close your right eye and look only with your left eye. Observe if the double vision persists.

Questions:

1. Is there double vision when using both eyes? yes/no

2. Is there double vision when looking only with your right eye (left closed)? yes/no

3. Is there double vision when looking only with your left eye (right closed)? yes/no

If your answers are: 1. yes, 2. no, 3. no, this is what we call binocular diplopia. This typically stems from issues involving the eye muscles or the nerves that control them.

As I have mentioned previously on this forum, people who spend significant time at a computer often deal with asthenopic symptoms—eye strain, burning, tearing, occasional dizziness, or the sensation that letters are drifting apart or doubling, forcing you to squint to pull them back together.

These issues are more frequent in individuals spending upwards of four hours a day at a workstation.

Additionally, under certain conditions—such as fatigue, general malaise, prolonged near-work, or high stress—the eye muscles can essentially lose their balance, a state known as decompensated heterophoria.

If your answers are: 1. yes, 2. yes, 3. no OR 1. yes, 2. no, 3. yes, then we are looking at monocular diplopia. In these cases, the cause is usually within the lens or the cornea. It is worth noting that astigmatism or poorly fitted/prescribed glasses can also trigger this.

Regardless, a thorough exam by an ophthalmologist is necessary.

I am unsure if you have undergone specific testing, such as phoria tests (Maddox cross, wing, fusion width measurements, etc.), a cover test, stenopeic visual acuity checks, or specialized strabismus evaluations.

If needed, seek a second opinion. You need a precise diagnosis, as these symptoms can range from trivial, harmless triggers to serious medical conditions.

Perforated ulcers tend to be dramatic affairs. They hit fast and hard, with intense pain that radiates across the entire abdomen and sometimes beyond, leaving you feeling generally quite unwell.

It’s possible that some of your current symptoms—the heartburn, the acid reflux, the abdominal pain—stem from GERD or perhaps a gastric or duodenal ulcer. However, you can't know for sure without a gastroscopy, which I see isn't scheduled for another month.

As for that liver ultrasound result, it definitely warrants a follow-up with an internist specializing in hepatology.

I am sorry you're going through this. It sounds exhausting, bouncing from doctor to doctor without any clear answers in hand.

Regrettably, I can't offer a definitive take on your condition. While it looks like you've undergone a significant amount of testing, it still doesn't paint a complete picture. Your results suggest something is happening, but only the gastroenterologist or hepatologist managing your care can truly weigh in on what's going on.

Wishing you the best. Hang in there. 😉

Sophia Adams63 said:Hi!
Maybe this sounds silly and isn't quite the right place for it, but I'm wondering if things like GERD, gastritis, or some other stomach issue would show up on blood work? Like, would you see elevated leukocytes or CRP, or what?
Thanks!!!

Generally speaking, when dealing with issues like gastritis or GERD, we don't expect to see changes in a standard blood count. However, if there's bleeding involved—say, from an ulcer or erosive gastritis—you might see anemia. Certain types of gastritis, such as atrophic gastritis, can also lead to anemia findings in the blood work.

Sophia Adams63 said:My CRP (C-reactive protein) is 9.6 mg/L, while the normal range goes up to 5 mg/L. My doctor says it indicates inflammation. It makes sense because my nose is running and there's mucus in my throat, even though my throat doesn't feel inflamed. I haven't been prescribed antibiotics yet, but I'm confused because my leukocyte count is perfectly normal.

What does that mean?

Think of CRP as an early warning system for inflammation. It’s more sensitive than leukocytes; it tends to rise faster, usually about 2–3 days before the white blood cell count starts to climb. Because of that, seeing an elevated CRP while the leukocytes remain steady isn't unusual at all.

brisknomad6 said:Hey experts. 🙂

I went to the lab for some blood work last week. My platelet count came back at 414. 🙂

As much as I appreciate being an exceptional donor—even if my hemoglobin is currently too low for a full donation—I can't help but feel a bit uneasy about how high counts are linked to thrombosis.

On my last lab results from nine months ago, it was 380.

Thanks.

Platelet counts are within the normal range, so there's no elevated risk of thrombosis here.

Plateau levels for platelets shift constantly based on various factors. It’s hardly unusual. Following an infection—say, a nasty case of strep throat—your platelet count can spike temporarily, even while you're recovering. Other triggers include stress, physical strain, or hormonal shifts in women leading up to menstruation. You also see elevations due to iron-deficiency anemia, significant blood loss, and similar physiological stressors. It's just how the body reacts.

Look, like I already pointed out, your results are perfectly fine. I only brought up that other example to illustrate a point: platelet counts aren't some static, frozen number. They have their own ebb and flow, much like any other parameter in a complete blood count.

Greetings. 🙂

brisknomad6 said:I've got an ingrown toenail that’s oozing pus, and swallowing is becoming a bit painful. I also noticed a slightly swollen lymph node. My doctor prescribed Silapen—suspecting bacterial tonsillitis—but I had some bloodwork done, specifically checking my LDH levels to rule out mononucleosis. My CBC came back normal, but my LDH is sitting at 271, while the standard range is 124–224. I forgot to mention I don't have a fever, but my bones ache and I've got a slight cough. Has anyone dealt with something similar?

What you’re describing doesn't fit the standard clinical picture for strep throat or infectious mononucleosis. It’s true that about 90% of patients with mono show elevated LDH levels, but if that’s the only outlier in your labs, it isn't enough to clinch a diagnosis. You'll need to circle back to your family doctor for a follow-up and run some additional tests to figure out what's actually going on.

Hello. 😉

brisknomad6 said:
What does MPV represent in a CBC? Does it actually mean anything if it's slightly elevated? My doctor didn't even mention it.
All my other values are normal...

MPV stands for mean platelet volume—basically the average size of your platelets. You have to look at it in relation to your total platelet count to get the full picture. If you're just seeing a minor deviation in MPV while the rest of your CBC looks solid, I’d consider it a normal result. It's likely why your physician didn't flag it.

Best regards. 🙂

dustycobra31 said:Here’s my situation, looking for some help
I can't wait for my viral markers to come back; I feel like I'm going to jump out of my skin.
My numbers:
ALT 70
AST 32
S-TIBIC 49, which is right at the lower limit
S-cholesterol 5.3
Please, give me the best or worst-case scenario.
I drink alcohol maybe twice a year, about two ounces at a time.
I try to avoid fatty foods, though I struggle with my weight.
And I don't use any drugs.

Dear dustycobra31,

First, let's look at those aminotransferase levels that are worrying you. I assume this isn't your first set of results; in cases like this, before jumping to a deep diagnosis, we usually need to re-run the aminotransferase tests—perhaps after a few weeks from when the initial deviation was spotted, or based on your doctor's clinical judgment.

If the new measurement still shows an elevation, then we have to investigate the cause. Let's assume the ALT remains high even after the re-test. What does that tell us? It indicates damage to liver cells. In this regard, ALT is more specific than AST. However, we cannot pinpoint the exact cause of liver damage based solely on these numbers.

Essentially, almost any liver condition involving moderate inflammation or cellular damage can lead to a slight rise in aminotransferases, much like what you're seeing here.

Since you mentioned struggling with weight, we should definitely consider something like fatty liver or potentially NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis). In the first case, we're talking about an excessive buildup of fat within the hepatocytes—the liver cells. Common culprits include being overweight, diabetes, fasting, or even alcohol. We also shouldn't rule out medications. Once the factor responsible for this state is removed—and for most patients, losing weight helps significantly—improvement and recovery typically follow.

When inflammatory changes accompany fatty liver, we call it NASH. Again, the foundation of treatment is addressing and managing the underlying risk factors.

Furthermore, we have to take viral hepatitis into account, particularly chronic forms. That is why you've been sent for those viral hepatitis markers.

Once those causes are ruled out, we look for other liver diseases.

As extensive as this explanation is, it unfortunately cannot provide a definitive answer regarding why your ALT is elevated. You'll need to wait for the rest of your results and consult with a gastroenterologist for a full evaluation and any necessary further testing.

Your total cholesterol of 5.3 mmol/l is slightly elevated. This should be managed primarily through diet and lifestyle changes; definitely discuss this with your primary care physician.

Best regards. 👍

Brian Moore10 said:Hey everyone, this is... My first post. I just hope I'm not misinterpreting these numbers...
I'm looking for some insight. Could anyone tell me what this hormone panel suggests about a 25-year-old male who maintains a clean diet and exercises regularly?
I won't dive into further details just yet—maybe later once I have some initial impressions. I want to avoid letting my own perceptions of the symptoms cloud the data, as they might turn out to be purely psychosomatic. Can anyone spot an obvious, recognizable issue here? I'm struggling to translate the significance of certain deviations from the reference ranges on my own.
Does anyone here have any deep insight into... Endocrinology. I would be very grateful.

Blood was drawn on November 29, 2010, at 11:30 AM. I wasn't fasting. In fact, I’d just finished a heavy, healthy meal—meat, a protein shake mixed with olive oil, eggs, water, and whey powder. I also took my supplements: Vitamin D3 (3x400IU), Omega-3 (3x; Dietpharm EPA 180mg, DHA 120mg), and a calcium, magnesium, and zinc combo (2x; KAL High Potency). I forgot to mention, I also took 2x Silymarin for my liver "just in case," as I was already planning to head in for an ultrasound due to some elevated bilirubin. It’s been a while since I saw results showing my bilirubin at 21 umol/L... along with slightly high urea... so after some time passed, I went back for another test on November 8, 2010, and... urea It was. 9.3 mmol/L (Ref. 2.8–8.3). Out of range., a Bilirubin at 30.5 umol/L (ref. 3-20). Slightly elevated. It’s like a car engine running a little hot—not a total breakdown, but definitely worth keeping an eye on.So, my doctor and I reached an agreement to go ahead with that ultrasound. We'll see where things land from there.

LH (ECL) - Result:2.4 U/L Reference. Interval: men. 1,7-8,6
FSH (ECL) - Result:1.4 U/L Reference. interval:men 1,5-12,4
ESTRADIOL (ECL) - Result:5.0 ng/L. Reference. Interval: men. 7,63-42,6
TESTOSTERONE (ECL) - Result:14.07 nmol/L Reference. interval:men From 9.9 up to 27.8.
FREE TESTOSTERONE (RAČ) - 321.20 pmol/L Reference. interval:men From 178.00 to 598.00.
DHEA-S (ECL) — essentially looking at dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels. It’s a snapshot of adrenal activity. If you're tracking this, you're likely digging into the hormonal balance between cortisol and androgens. Think of it like a fuel gauge for the endocrine system; it tells you how much raw material the adrenals are pumping out for conversion elsewhere. Always worth cross-referencing with other markers to see the full picture. 8.7 μmol/L Reference. Interval: men. 2,6-7,7
sHBG (ECL) - 34.55 nmol/L Standard. Interval: men.From 14.5 to 48.4.
CORTISOL (ECL) - 634.3 nmol/L Standard. Timeframe: before noon. 7:00–10:00 AM. Range: 171–536.Afternoon. Between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Range: 64–340.
T3 (ECL) — 1.6 nmol/L. Reference range:1,3 to 3,1.
T4 (ECL) - 113 nmol/L Reference range:59 up to 154.
TSH (ECL) — 3.33 mU/L Reference range:From 0.27 up to 4.2.

I appreciate any helpful information you can share. 🙂

P.S. There are definitely other deviations from the reference ranges in this hematology report, but I’m not entirely sure how much weight they actually carry.

Dear Brian Moore10,

As much as I’d like to give you an idea of what we're looking at based on those results, it's simply not possible.

Regarding the endocrine results, there are slight deviations in cortisol and DHEA levels. However, a single snapshot like this isn't enough to draw any real conclusions. Slightly elevated morning cortisol can be nothing more than a reaction to non-specific stress.

Nadalje, you haven't specified what symptoms you're experiencing or why you were asked to test your hormone levels. That makes it difficult to offer much of a meaningful comment.

It’s worth noting that various factors can drive up cortisol levels, including physical exertion.

Naturally, there is also a range of medical conditions that can cause elevated cortisol, such as Cushing's syndrome. However, those values are typically much higher, and a diagnosis requires meeting several specific criteria—ranging from clinical presentation (your actual symptoms and physical appearance) to specific diagnostic testing results. I should emphasize this once more: a single cortisol measurement from a blood test isn't enough to establish a diagnosis.

Because of this, you'll need to consult with an endocrinology specialist. Based on your specific symptoms, they will determine if further investigation is necessary and which steps to take next.

The second part of your question concerns the elevated bilirubin and urea levels. Again, high total bilirubin alone won't provide an answer. One needs to know the conjugated (direct) bilirubin levels and determine whether this is isolated hyperbilirubinemia—meaning no other liver function markers are abnormal and there are no signs of hemolysis (the breakdown of red blood cells)—or if other parameters are also out of range. There is a relatively common condition characterized by mildly elevated bilirubin without other liver dysfunction or hemolysis known as Gilbert's syndrome. It's a benign condition that affects men five times more often than women and doesn't require treatment. Whether this applies to you, I cannot say; I lack sufficient data, and additional testing is required, which it seems your doctor already intends to perform.

As for the elevated urea levels, if kidney function is normal, this could simply reflect a diet high in protein (and you did mention using a protein shake...), though I can't say for certain.

Given all this, it is clear that you need a thorough specialist evaluation to get real answers.

Best regards and all the best. 😉

Drew Jones26 said:My sister is three months pregnant and just had her CBC done. All parameters look normal, except for Pct, which is slightly elevated at 0.288 (ref range 0.108-0.282). Does this matter during pregnancy, and what could it indicate?

Dear Drew Jones26,

I'm not entirely certain what the "PCT" label refers to in your sister's report, as that abbreviation can represent several different things depending on the lab. Please take this response with a grain of salt.

However, since you mentioned this was a complete blood count and looking at those reference ranges, I suspect that the mysterious "PCT" actually stands for plateletcrit. Sometimes you'll see it labeled as Tct, but PCT is the standard shorthand for Plateletcrit.

Essentially, plateletcrit is a metric used to measure the volume percentage of platelets in the blood. Values tend to fluctuate quite a bit based on the specific analyzer the lab uses.

If my assumption is correct, then this result is practically normal.

That said, the OB-GYN should always have the final word.

Best wishes to you and your sister. 🙂

Amanda Lee4 said:So, I'm not quite sure where to ask this, but I'm hoping someone can help me out. We had some blood work done for our baby because of atopic dermatitis, and the results look like this:

specIgE for cow's milk protein 1.71 kUA/l, class 2
specIgE for egg white 3.31 kUA/l, class 3

Can anyone explain exactly what this means?🤷

To put it simply: a higher concentration of specific IgE usually points to a stronger allergy. When looking at food, a higher value suggests a greater likelihood that consuming that specific item will trigger an allergic reaction. These concentrations are categorized into classes from 0 to 6. A 0 means the level is immeasurably low—essentially undetectable—while as you move from 1 up to 6, the severity of the allergy increases. In this case, class 2 indicates a low response, while class 3 is considered moderately positive.

The tricky part about interpreting these numbers is that different foods have different predictive values. This means the threshold at which a test result is considered significant varies depending on the child's age and the specific type of test used.

Essentially, interpretation is complex. You can't just look at the number in a vacuum; it always has to be weighed against the clinical picture—the actual symptoms—as well as the child's age, the specific allergen, the testing method, and other lab findings. Because of that, your pediatrician and dermatologist will have the final word and should provide the definitive commentary on these results.

Think of this explanation as a rough guide to give you a general idea of what's happening.

If the doctors determine there is a confirmed food allergy based on all those factors, they will recommend removing that food from your child's diet. There is some good news here: for many children, eliminating the offending food can actually lead to the loss of that sensitivity over time.

Wishing you and your little one all the best.

Best regards. 👍

mistymaker8 said:Hello there.
I have a question regarding this situation. I’ve been diagnosed with bacterial tonsillitis—though I only found out by accident since my main symptoms were just a red throat and some pus plugs in my tonsils. I was prescribed Amoxicillin (16 tablets), which I’ve finished, but the redness and those plugs haven't budged. How much time should pass before I can start a second "round" of medication?

Dear mistymaker8,

Your question caught my eye immediately—specifically that part where you mentioned, "I have tonsillitis with pus—I found out by accident because I don't actually have any symptoms..."

Clinical indicators suggesting strep throat typically include: a fever exceeding 100.4°F, exudate (pus) present in the pharynx or on the tonsils, swollen anterior cervical lymph nodes, and an absence of a cough. The more of these symptoms that manifest, the higher the probability of a streptococcal infection.

It’s also fairly standard for the illness to hit like a freight train—sudden onset accompanied by fever, chills, a sore throat, and pain when swallowing, usually paired with general fatigue and frequent headaches.

So, a few questions come to mind:

Do you even discuss streptococcal tonsillopharyngitis or any other type of infection at your practice?

2. Why didn't the antibiotic treatment work?

You’ll get an answer to that first question once you've had a follow-up with your primary care physician. If they decide it’s necessary—perhaps after running some additional tests like a smear or a complete blood count—that's when you'll have your clarity.

The answer to the second question depends entirely on the first. If the tests confirm a strep infection, you'll be prescribed a different antibiotic. If it turns out to be something else, the treatment plan changes accordingly.

Bottom line: go see your primary care physician. You need to confirm whether you're actually dealing with strep throat or something else entirely so you can stick to the right treatment plan.

Hello.

mistymaker8 said:I have one quick question.
Can you suspect lymphoma or leukemia based solely on basic CBC results? I mean, just from the standard CBC itself?

The answer is yes, it’s certainly a possibility.

electricraven1 said:I'd appreciate your thoughts on these results..
I am 31 years old.
Results:
Hematology: erythrocyte 5.10 (H)
Biochemistry: Cholesterol 5.2 (H), LDL-Cholesterol 3.4 (H)
What do these indicate?
Also, if you know, what could a folded gallbladder mean? (I get occasional stomach pains)

Hello,

Regarding your erythrocyte count, it is essentially a normal result.

Your cholesterol levels are mildly elevated. Assuming your triglycerides are within range, the first line of defense would typically be dietary adjustments—something you should definitely discuss with your primary care physician.

A "folded" gallbladder is essentially just an anatomical variation in shape. Generally speaking, the fold itself shouldn't cause much trouble.

However, since you mentioned abdominal pain, please make sure to consult with your doctor about it.

Best regards.

A few pointers:

1. Position your monitor below eye level. You should be looking slightly downward at the screen.

2. Try to maintain a distance of about 24 inches from the display, assuming that feels comfortable for you.

3. Work in shorter, more frequent bursts. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break. Use that time to look at something far away—out a window, for instance.

4. Occasionally massage your eyes gently by closing them and lightly circling your fingertips over your eyelids.

5. Using artificial tears can sometimes help.

6. I’ll save this for last, even though it belongs at the top, because it requires a professional consultation: it is vital that anyone working on a computer gets an accurate correction for refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism) specifically calibrated for your workstation distance.

Eye strain tends to be more prevalent in those logging more than four hours of screen time daily.

One important note (and I know I probably sound like a broken record on this Reddit): anyone experiencing discomfort while using a computer needs to undergo a thorough ophthalmological exam.

Simply reading letters and numbers off a chart in an optometrist's office to hit 100% visual acuity isn't enough. That isn't the kind of comprehensive exam I’m talking about. Beyond testing distance and near vision—or vision at 22 inches or whatever your specific working distance is—they need to check things like phoria and fusion.

Hello,

The photo is a bit blurry, making a definitive diagnosis difficult, but it certainly looks like subconjunctival hemorrhage. Aside from a physical impact or perhaps a minor scratch or sting you might have missed, this can be triggered by something as simple as a heavy sneeze, coughing, straining, or even just rubbing your eye too hard...

If this is a one-time occurrence and you aren't seeing bruises elsewhere, there’s likely no reason to worry.

However, if these bruises become a pattern, or if you notice spontaneous bleeding in your skin or mucous membranes without any clear injury, it’s time to look deeper. You should also seek medical attention if you experience swelling, pain, vision changes, worsening symptoms, discharge, double vision, or floaters.

Since we can't be 100% certain of the exact cause—even if it appears non-threatening—I would suggest checking in with your primary care physician just to be safe.

Best regards. 😉