Ask a doctor on the topic of General medicine

Question: Blood test for Lupus

June 23, 2020 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Hello Mrs. Gehring,

As you can see, I don't ask as often anymore, I hope it stays that way. Today I had another lupus check-up in Tübingen, and I just called quickly to see if everything is okay. The protein value in my urine is still present, but relatively constant... I may receive more information on that. However, the lymphocytes were low, at 0.66 - the last time it was around 1. Two years ago, it was also at 0.74 and 0.76... so generally nothing new. He mentioned that it could be checked again, it could be due to lupus or the medication (Predni and Aza) I am taking. I also always have quite a stress reaction during medical check-ups. All other blood values seem to be fine.
Now you know me, the fear is now heading towards Hodgkin's or leukemia, which are circulating on the internet. Could you reassure me in that regard, especially if I am otherwise symptom-free? And most of all, the values have been similarly low before...
Perhaps a short reassurance or assessment from you, if I am overreacting again?
Thank you.

Dr. med. Frauke Gehring

Good evening,

Unfortunately, you caught me once again on vacation.

I don't understand your fear of Hodgkin's disease. There is apparently a lack of anemia and elevated alkaline phosphatase, and LDH does not appear to be elevated either. Not to mention there are no suspicious lymph nodes.

You are still reading too much on the internet!

Leukemia would cause even more significant changes, which doesn't fit at all. The decreased lymphocytes have already been explained to you.

I don't see any reason to worry.

Sincerely, Dr. Gehring