Neutropenia Is Now Good News!

Usually a neutrophil count of 270, which is so low that it's considered "neutropenic," is bad. Today, though, a neutrophil count of 270 is wonderful! I was expecting zero.

Exactly one week ago I had a neutrophil count of 300. I refused a Neupogen shot (a white blood cell/neutrophil booster) on advice of my doctor at Vanderbilt and went through the week assuming I was neutropenic. For the last three months, I could be confident that if I didn't get a Neupogen or Neulasta shot, my neutrophils would drop to zero. Since those are the cells that fight bacteria, that means I have to wear a surgical mask, wash my hands all the time, avoid raw foods, etc. I can't even mow the lawn or do plumbing.

Today, after one week, I am still neutropenic, but I am not at zero! I am at 270! Something really has kicked in. Now we see how well it's kicked in. I'll get a blood check again next week, here locally. No more neupogen shots. My body has to do this on its own.