Expert: Neha Dahiya MD - 10/6/2009

Question
The dr called me back for repeat tests. I don't have the first one except the platlets were 129. One week later the Platlets are 88. It also reads High for RDW,Eos, and Eos (absolute) I am taking Methotrexate for RA. What could the problem be? He is sending me to a "blood" Dr.(his words not mine) Could you help me understand what it means with the test results. Thank you for taking time for me.

Answer
Hello Linda:

Methotrexate is the drug used for RA. However this has lot of toxic side effects.

One of them is that the drug can affect the bone marrow. The stuff within bone cavities where all the types of blood cells are produced including platelets.

As a result of taking methotrexate you may develop anemia due to folate deficiency, platelets may be destroyed and you have less number of platelets and this will interfere with clotting of blood.

Such abnormalities can also be present independent of Methotrexate in other disorders. A hematologist (blood Dr.) can evaluate the bone marrow and decide if these findings are due to Methotrexate side effects. If so the dosage will be adjusted and or additional therapy initiated.

I hope this helps answer your question