Thanks, Tig for the explanation re platelets.  It does make sense.  Someone else can answer on the AFP.  I looked through last few years of test results and haven't seen them post that one.

Thanks for the detailed and very reassuring response Tig. I've been studying my blood work really closely, so I tend to obsess over details.

Does anybody know anything about the AFP score in blood work? 

I agree, that's nothing to worry about at all. We routinely see them sub 100, without intervention. Not so much with the new DAA's however. When the count gets that low, there certainly has to be attention given to it, particularly to find out why. Cirrhotics and other immunocompromised patients commonly see them much lower. If a crisis is determined, packed cells can be administered to give immediate relief. I believe our Moderator Mike, is currently holding steady about 75 and has been less in the past. Those on Ribavirin can see their platelet count fall as a result of the accompanying anemia. Once treatment is over, if the platelet reduction was treatment induced, it will recover rather quickly.

Thanks JimmyK - I'm a worrier :)

176 is fine.

120 and below needs some attention.

JimmyK

What is considered a low platelet count? Does this mean one has varices? Mine is currently 176

As fibrosis increases, particularly in cirrhosis (F4+) the blood perfusion through the liver decreases. That can result in portal hypertension and subsequent splenomegaly (spleen enlargement). As the spleen gets enlarged, it can (and does) cause a reduction in circulating red blood cells. Blood pools or collects in the spleen when it can't flow through the liver properly. Hemolytic anemia can cause platelets to drop, which is a  adverse reaction to Ribavirin. It's very common in cirrhotics to see a lower platelet count, sometimes significant.

When I read the bio of folks, it seems like the closer to F4 or cirrhotic, the lower the platelets?  I'm trying to figure the correlation.