Hi, I have a 14 yr old son who has been being followed by a hematologist for 9 months for mild thrombocytopenia and mild neutropenia. His only clinical symptom is fatigue.  A BMB has not been performed. His DR thinks its either ITP, or less likely, familial or a bone marrow failure. I am a Med tech and I occasionally check his CBC. Last time I looked at his smear, I found a mast cell. Is this significant? Could this be a clue to whats going on with him? Should I wait 2 more months for his next appointment, or go in earlier? Thank you.
Hello and welcome to Chat Doctor, The normal percentage for a mast cell or basophil on peripheral blood smear is 0-1% and the absolute number varies from 0-100 cells per cubic millimeter. Thus, it is normal to find a single mast cell or basophil on peripheral blood smear. There is nothing to worry about it. You can consult your hematologist for treatment of ITP without any worry. Thanks and take care Chat Doctor.