High platelet count - any GPs around?

[Sunorstayome]

Hi, in a quandary as to whether to query Practice Nurse’s interpretation of blood test results or whether I’m being over anxious.

I had as full blood count taken yesterday and pathology sent me all the results though patients know best.
platelets were flagged as out of range at 414 (range 150-410) and calcium was at top end of range. Vitamin d in my boots. They also did a whole load of tumour markers (all within range).

For context I’ve had breast and uterine cancer in last 3 years and was trying to see gp for persistent sore throat and fatigue and dizziness. I saw the lovely Advanced Clinical Practitioner Nurse rather than GP and she has come back with a text saying “all normal bar vitamin D”. I think she’s wrong! Latest NICE guidance is that high platelets should be a red flag for breast, uterine and colon cancers. Range tends to be above 450 but acknowledged to be high at 400 and high normal is also a red flag. Coupled with quite high calcium levels, I’m worried!
I feel the the test should be repeated in 4 weeks but I’ve just been told all is normal.
I don’t want to question her expertise but then again, it’s my health and pretty serious.
thank you and sorry for ramble

Could you have been dehydrated when you had the tests?

Thanks Poppy, no i wasn’t dehydrated- had herbal tea, tea, water - I had very low blood pressure, so she asked that question

Huh. Do you know what your previous platelet counts were?

No, it’s the first time they’ve come through on patients know best - I’m usually fairly trusting and just go with their interpretation, so never find out.

Repeating the test in a few weeks sounds sensible.

Are you looking at the adjusted calcium or calcium? It is the adjusted calcium that matters

I'd phone the practice and ask if they can check your previous results as your platelet count might always be on the high side and therefore normal for you. They might also be slightly raised from infection (sore throat). I personally wouldn't worry at that level but with your medical history I understand why you would. Disclaimer- not a GP (midwife)

Thanks hopeless (sorry). Adjusted was 2.44. (Range 2.15-2.5). Not out of range but quite high. I admit I know little about this stuff but am a HCP, so do know broadly

Thanks Poppy - I hate making a fuss but nor do I want that gremlin in my ear….

Your adjusted calcium is fine. That's the important figure.

Your platelet count is only just out of the normal range. I wouldn't look twice at that as an HCP. Rechecking is a sensible step.

In range for calcium is still in range.

Plus platelets are only just over, to the point you could count on another day, or even 30 minutes later and they would be in range.

Nobody will care about your platelet result except you so please tell your gremlin to kindly go away.

😁 thank you Anna and Luncheon - I kind of know I’m being paranoid and the gremlin is ruling the roost