Consistently high white counts

Hi I'm 40 years old, Itp since age 16, splenectomy at 18. I have found that I always have slightly elevated WBC (around 12, normal is 3-10). I am wondering anyone else with splenectomy has this, or maybe it's a symptom of ITP? Also lym (what is that?) levels a bit high above normal range. I am worried that there is a long term consequence of having elevated wbc, does anyone know?

Thanks,
Laura

Laura it's normal for the asplenic to have a higher white cell count. Does lym mean lymphocytes? They are one type of white cell so if they are high then the full white count will also be high. Nothing to worry about.

www.propath.com/companies/press-clippings/26-newsletters/316-the-post-splenectomy-blood-picture-february-2012

That`s funny i just arrived here to ask the same question!.I had Itp with splenectomy at 24, in remission since now at 45.
I`m being investigated for possible arthritis because of sore hands and plantar fasciitis. When they checked my blood the wbc count has been up for years and they are also looking at ALPS as a cause.
Is the wbc being high for post itp not common knowledge for blood labs and consultants?.
I did search the net for post splenectomy counts but they didn`t say anything about being long term in remission.
Thanks
Allan

The higher white count has nothing to do with ITP as such but is a response to having no spleen. All doctors should know that those without a spleen may have a higher white count than normal. Lab techs will know but will only think of it if the doctor writes on the blood form that the patient has no spleen.

It says on the labtest website, near the bottom of the page..

"If you have had your spleen removed, you may have a persistent mild to moderate increased WBC count."

labtestsonline.org.uk/understanding/analytes/wbc/tab/test/