AboutSamantha, MLT (ASCP) Expertise I can answer most general questions about all aspects of laboratory testing. But I'm not a doctor! I can just give general answers.
Experience I have been the chemistry supervisor at the hopsital where I work for 11 years. I am an MLT (ASCP)which means I am board certified.
Education/Credentials Associate's Degree, Medical Lab Technician, 1997.
Question I had elevated rbc for more than one year. I found an new Dr., after the first test which showed elevated rbc, she sent me to a hematologist/oncologist. The next day i went for a routine check gyn noticed lumps in my breast. i have cancer. Shouldn't my previous DR. refered me to a hematologist/oncologist?
Answer Hi Tina, I'd be glad to try and answer your question. An elevated RBC (red blood cell) count could be for a number of reasons, such as dehydration, pulmonary disease, congenital heart disease, polycythemia vera, renal problems, or tissue hypoxia. None of these include cancer. I don't believe that your elevated RBC count has anything to do with being diagnosed with breast cancer. Now, should your first doctor have sent you to a hematologist/oncologist? Maybe...depending on the other results of your lab work, whether or not the RBC count was extremely elevated, or just a little out of range, and whether or not you had any symptoms of a problem. But like I said, I don't think that the RBC count and cancer are related. Take care and good luck.
Samantha
**This answer is not a substitute for professional medical advice.**
