HomeAnswersMedical oncologyleukemiaDoes leukemia cause high WBC count?

Is bleeding gum a sign of leukemia?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Vinodhini J.

Published At January 9, 2020
Reviewed AtJanuary 9, 2020

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have extreme fear of leukemia after hearing about it through my friend. I read on the internet that leukemia causes bleeding gums. The next day I noticed blood from my gums and was extremely scared. After a lot of tension, I showed elevated WBC of 11800. I was sure that I had leukemia, however, I waited for two and a half months and repeated the CBC. It is 10400. Why is my WBC not getting low? The only symptom I have is my gingivitis. I do not understand what is wrong with me? I also read that cancer causes gingivitis. I am attaching my two CBC reports. Please help to get rid of this tension.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have seen your reports. (attachment removed to protect patient identity).

Can you tell a few things like do you have any fever or night sweats? Any bleeding from anywhere else?

Yes, leukemias cause gum bleeds, but it is not the most common cause. Usually, the cause of gum bleeds is gingivitis, or poor dental hygiene, or vigorous brushing.

As the reports are generated by an automatic counter, there is a chance of variation in CBC (complete blood count). If it is not abnormal there is no need to worry. I would advise you to repeat CBC along with peripheral smear. If it is normal no need worry. Usually, in leukemias, you will have low platelets and very high WBC count.

As per the above reports, it is not suggesting any serious problem. I would be happy to help if you have any further questions.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

No, I have no fever or night sweats. No bleeding from any other place. This is my second time doing CBC. I asked for a peripheral count test, but few other doctors advised me not to do as there are no abnormal values.

Hi,

Welcome back to iclinq.com.

Yes, there is nothing abnormal in CBC. If you do not have any symptoms there is no need to repeat it. If you still have doubts or unsatisfied then you can go ahead with CBC with peripheral smear. But as per current CBC, it is normal.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

I think I should just not overthink it. I think my gingivitis is because of improper maintenance and usually, food accumulates in my tooth. I have had a cold but it got cured by itself without any medications. I think I am overthinking.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

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

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Pawar Satyajit Jalinder
Dr. Pawar Satyajit Jalinder

Medical oncology

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