How can the exact cause of a low WBC level be identified?

Question

Hello doctor,

For the past few years during my routine physical my WBC has been low. (2700 to 3700) Neutrophils have run a little low also. No other issues, completely healthy. My dad was diagnosed with multiple myeloma a few years ago but doing well. I have read about some family history with this disease, any thoughts or concerns?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

According to the history provided, your main concern is regarding fear of multiple myeloma. In case of a multiple myeloma like malignancy, there is usually the presence of weakness, fatigue and bone pain. In multiple myeloma, osteolytic bone lesions occur and so bone pain is present and serum calcium level is increased because of osteolysis.

Blood picture show anemia also and peripheral smear examination report shows rouleaux formation of RBC (attachment removed to protect patient identity). You can check your ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) as well. If you have no clinical complaint then multiple myeloma seems less likely. If you still want to investigate then serum immunofixation electrophoresis and urine Bence Jones protein estimation will be beneficial for doing work up for myeloma. Take care.