Imuran and Tiny Red Dots
 

I know what to look for: tiny red dots on the skin that show a dangerously low level of platelets. I have a little patch on the inside of my elbow. I think it's very likely I was just carrying something that stretched the skin--I used to get similar patches near my arm-pits from back-pack straps. The doctor mentioned that my platelets were on the low side of normal before I began the Imuran. But, I guess I'm taking no chances: I'll call and ask for a blood test. I read that thrombocytopenia can have no symptoms at all, so I guess even possible mild symptoms need to be checked out.

I'm just checking in, keeping the information flowing. It pays to be an informed patient.

Abby

Abby, definitely a good idea to have your blood work checked. A few years ago I had an episode of severe thrombocytopenia for a very different reason. I was taking bactrim and it suppressed my bone marrow so I didn't produce platelets. I had many petechial hemorrhages all over my body, even in my mouth. By the time my doctor checked my bloodwork my platelet level was 7,000. By the time I made it to the ER it was 2,000. Definitely a critical situation. I received a platelet transfusion, 4 units, and treatment with prednisone. That's all it took to correct the situation for me. You don't want to let it get to that point. Do you have any bruises?

Thanks, Suddenly, I think I needed the encouragement to take care of this. I did get the lab order, but didn't make it to the lab today--just too tired. I will go tomorrow morning for sure.

I have a lot of bruises, but I think it's from bumping into things so much. I walk like a combination of a crane fly and the scarecrow from the Wizard of Oz.

Abby

Lol! I am also not the most graceful person God ever put on this planet. Not sure how much of that to blame on the MG but MG should be good for something, right?
My bruises were out of proportion with injury. I had bruises on my feet from wearing my shoes. However, the level my platelets were at was ridiculously and alarmingly low. Now that I think about it, I guess the reason for the low platelets wouldn't be that different since it's all related to suppressed bone marrow function. I'm glad you're getting it checked.