Bizarre Red Blood Cells

I am new to the forum, but recent results from a blood test has me seeking additional answers and help.

I am on the interferon treatment plan and have just finished my fifth week.  

The lab said that, "my red blood cells looked bizarre" not exactly a medical term that engenders confidence.

Does anyone know what this means and/or have you expereinced this?

I'm seeing my regular doctor tomorrow but am somwhat anxious.

Thank you!

[FlGuy]

There are several effects that the combo treatment can have on the red cell, white cell and platelet components in lab tests.  Hopefully, your doc will have copies of the results and be able to interpret bizzare for you.  Kind of reminds me of the colonscopy doc who said 'what a nasty looking place that is'.  Interesting commentary, but not real useful to the patient.

[antman]

the lab told you that, really? usually the lab doesn't tell you anything, they just send the results to the Dr. who interprets the results. that's bizarre. let us know after you see your Dr.

[debnevada]

sometimes they do in the beginning.....the sizes can be different at this point in your treatment....bizarre is not a word i would use bu anicytosis is (which means different cell sizes).

Probably person interpreting doesn't have a lot of experience with tx related anemia blood cells.

[honey11]

I am also surprised that the lab reported this to you and yes,,,,I would be feeling a little anxious if my lab was referenced as "bizarre"!   If it was me,,,,I wouldn't wait until the appt tomorrow and just call your drs office and tell them you are uneasy and would like to know what your lab number are or could they fax them to you.  Please let us know what your results are..........

[goldyn]

The lab person most likely is new...probably whats going on is your red blood cells are growing bigger..to accomodate the amount of red blood cells the riba is killing you might be heading into anemia so its good you have an appt. to see were you are at.......

[ladybug52]

Have to say--what a moron the lab person was! He certainly was not very professional to blurt something out like that.
Usually the RDW (Red cell distribution width) is  abnormal because the tx attacks the red blood cells. and they die off, along with the virus.  The bodies response  is to push out new red blood cells rapidly, and the sizes are  not uniform. The lab tech was probably looking at the new red blood cells and couldn't figure out why they were not uniform in size, like "normal" blood cells. Don't worry, it's just a normal response to tx.
Bug