Can HSV-2 affect my white blood cell count?

Question

Hello doctor,

I had my yearly physical exam three months back, and today I was told that my white blood cell count was low (3). I did not ask about the laboratory’s reference range, but I did find out that I have gallstones and low vitamin D.

Two years ago, my doctor asked if any family members had a history of liver disease or hepatitis. He mentioned that a test showed my bilirubin was high, possibly indicating Gilbert's Syndrome (I have had jaundice-like eyes since childhood), but he did not express major concern. My white blood cells were low then as well, but my tests showed no compromised immune system, including an HIV test.

Health history:

I am a vegan, 41-year-old African American woman.
I have had HSV-2 since I was 20, with occasional manageable outbreaks.
I was taking weight loss pills (diuretics) during the month of my exam.
A month prior, my husband and I found out we were pregnant and had an abortion.
My mother had breast cancer but passed away from congestive heart failure, and my father died from cirrhosis of the liver.
My doctor says that I am in good health for my age.

My question:

Could the factors surrounding my blood draw having HSV-2 for the past 20 years and taking diuretics be contributing to my low white blood cell count?

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

No, neither having HSV-2 (herpes simplex virus) for the past 20 years nor taking diuretics would affect your white blood cell (WBC) count.

Unless you have an infection, there is no need to worry about your WBC count.

Gilbert's syndrome (harmless inherited condition causing occasional jaundice due to elevated bilirubin levels) is common but often undiagnosed in most people’s lives. Occasional hyperbilirubinemia (a condition characterized by elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood, often causing jaundice) is the only sign.

During outbreaks of HSV-2, your WBC count would increase, not decrease. If your low WBC count is not a recent issue, it would have been more concerning during your abortion, especially if there was an infection. There is no need to worry about your WBC count functioning well.

If your WBC count is low, consider a protein-rich diet with vitamin B12 and folic acid supplements to help improve it. I hope there is no associated anemia.

Unless you have a low platelet count as well, there is no need to be concerned about your low WBC count. Focus on improving your diet. You are in good health and will remain healthy.

If you have any further queries, I am happy to help again.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you want some help.

Thank you.