Blood test results - worried

[Forgottenidentity]

Dh had cancer last year which was treated with chemo and radiotherapy. He is now in remission, but still struggling with long term side effects. His type of treatment makes him more likely to have thyroid problems so I encouraged him to ask for a blood test. He is pleased that they came back no further action but I’ve just looked at them and looks like his platelets are low
Platelet count - observation 138 10*9/L [140.0 -
400.0]; Below low reference limit.
Should I be worried and ask GP for further investigation. I don’t want to alarm my dh but I’m always on high alert. Anyone medical on here give me their thoughts please. The only medication he is on is Lansoprazole.

It’s important to ask for context - what level were previous platelet results? It helps to see if there is a pattern - for example, it could be that it was worse and is now improving.

Best to make an appointment to discuss - better to be safe than sorry.

Thanks @Analysisandparalysis I have had a quick look at blood test results last year. They have never been particularly high (157,195). Unfortunately he hasn’t had blood tests before last year to compare. I suffer massive health anxiety so not sure if this is clouding my judgement and also recognise if GP is happy maybe I should accept it.

I wouldn't worry at that level, unless you've been told it's critical to monitor. Maybe ask for a repeat in 3/6 months, but no need to panic.

It looks like a pattern from before, rather than a sudden drop, which is reassuring.

I’ve had family member with MUCH lower platelets - which was a cause for concern. I’m talking a level of 15-20.

Health anxiety can be incredibly debilitating and you should seek some therapeutic support for yourself as you’ve been through a very tough time with your DH. It’s important to remind yourself that worrying more will not make a jot of difference to the outcome (appreciate that is easier said that done!)

It's only just below normal - so I wouldn't be too stressed about it at this point. It can be many factors - has he had any mild illness recently?

Maybe ask for a repeat blood test in a couple of weeks to check the levels again.

Your health anxiety is definitely clouding your judgement here. The doctor has looked at the test results, compared them to previous ones, and doesn’t feel the very slightly low platelet level is a concern.

FWIW, I was seriously ill recently and my blood tests still show some slightly abnormal levels as a result but it doesn’t mean I need any further treatment.

Health anxiety is hard to live with and I sympathise; it must be harder knowing that your DH has previously been unwell. But you do need to be careful that you don’t project your anxiety on to your partner. He’s been told there’s no cause for concern so don’t create a concern for him where none exists. That won’t help him; it will make him stressed and worried for no good reason.

@Forgottenidentity

Use this number as your base going forward 138 109/L *

These figures would be classed as mild thrombocytopenia

Given how seriously unwell your DH has been, you are quite right to be vigilant and should continue to advocate for him.

If you are, at all, concerned do not hesitate to talk to either your husband's oncology team or his GP, with his consent of course.