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A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Huntersville, NC

- aPTT: 22.7 - LOW (abnormal)
- Sedimentation rate: 21 - HIGH (abnormal)
- WBC: 15.28 - HIGH
* Neutrophil Absolute (Man Diff): 8.25 - HIGH
* Lymphocytes Absolute (Man Diff): 5.81 - HIGH
* Monocytes Absolute (Man Diff): 1.22 - HIGH
* Basophils Absolute (Man Diff): 0.15 - HIGH
* Lymphocytes %: 38
* Neutrophils: 54
* Monocytes %: 8

November 6, 2025
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A MyLupusTeam Member

My monocytes stay high

November 11, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

The sed rate is within normal range for many labs, so at most, it's mildly elevated. With a severe or organ flare, it's usually at least over 60 or so in my 40 years of experience. The total white blood cell count is high, suggesting a possible infection, but the percentages of different types are acceptable for most labs. The aPTT is of concern if it is high, not if it is slightly low, as yours is.

I hope this helps, but please see your doctor if you're having flare symptoms.

November 7, 2025
MyLupusTeam

Are these blood test results common in lupus?

Yes, several of your results align with what's commonly seen in lupus, though some are a bit different from typical patterns.

Your elevated sedimentation rate (ESR of 21) is actually quite common. High ESR levels indicate inflammation in the body, which happens during lupus flares Show Full Answer

Are these blood test results common in lupus?

Yes, several of your results align with what's commonly seen in lupus, though some are a bit different from typical patterns.

Your elevated sedimentation rate (ESR of 21) is actually quite common. High ESR levels indicate inflammation in the body, which happens during lupus flares or active disease. This test helps doctors monitor disease activity.

Your high white blood cell count (WBC of 15.28) is less typical. Many people with lupus actually experience leukopenia, which means low WBC counts (below 4,000 cells per microliter). About 50-60% of people with systemic lupus have lower than normal white blood cell levels overall.

However, high WBC counts can occur in lupus under certain circumstances:
* During active disease or flares
* If you're taking steroids like prednisone for treatment
* If there's an infection present
* Due to inflammation and tissue injury

Your low aPTT result relates to blood clotting speed. Lupus can affect how quickly blood clots, and this test helps monitor that risk. What about the specific elevated cell counts?

Your elevated neutrophil, lymphocyte, monocyte, and basophil counts (all types of white blood cells) are contributing to your overall high WBC.

Interestingly, about 75-90% of people with lupus typically have lymphopenia (low lymphocyte counts), so your high lymphocyte count is unusual for lupus alone. Similarly, neutropenia (low neutrophil counts) affects 20-40% of people with lupus.

Changes in these cell counts often reflect disease activity and can signal worsening lupus. It's important to discuss these results with your doctor, who can look at the complete picture including your symptoms, other test results, and medication use.

Regular blood work monitoring is essential for managing lupus, so make sure you're having consistent checkups to track any changes over time.

November 6, 2025

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