worried about leukemia....

hello,

I have been sick for about 9 weeks now. My symptoms include the following
- diarhea (diarrhea)
- rapid heartbeat
- headache/neck ache
- extreme fatigue
- low red blood counts on CBC (RBC = 3.7, Basophil = 0, HCT = 0.33, HGB = 113. All other counts were normal
- extreme and painful menstruaation (heavy bleeding)

I had an ultrasound and the results showed that my fibroid had grown quite large. (8cm x 8cm x 8cm).

My question is: could the fibroid be causing anemia, and would anemia have all those symptoms and those CBC results? I'm worried about leukemia as i've heard it affects blood counts like that. Am I at risk for leukemia or is it more likely from the fibroid causing anemia? Would the CBC have indications of leukemia? Please help.... I'm at my wits end and my dr. is not very helpful or available..

Thank you.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Fibroids can definitely lead to anemia.  If this is suspected, a surgical procedure can be considered to remove them.  

If this cause has been ruled out, and you continue to be anemic, futher testing like obtaining a blood smear as well as bone marrow biopsy can be considered to rule out leukemia.  

If the HCT continues to decrease, or your symptoms worsen, I would recommend immediate medical care - or go to an emergency room for evaluation.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

[aprilokla]

A related discussion, Possible leukemia was started.