HealingWell
Search Close Search
☰

Waiting to see the Dr.

Support Forums
>
Lupus
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply
❬ ❬ Previous Thread |Next Thread ❭ ❭
Posted 8/8/2008 2:19 AM (GMT 0)
Hello, I am waiting (impatiently) for my Sept. 8th Dr. Appointment. I first went to see the rheumatologist last month to rule out RA. I have been having joint pain and morning stiffness for the past six months and was diagnosed with Raynaud's phenomenon about two years ago. Also, I have daily headaches/dizzyness and break out in a rash whenever I spend time in the sun. The Dr. ordered blood tests and x-rays of my hands. I have a copy of my test results here and it looks like I am anemic and I may have an issue with acidosis (my Anion Gap is high and my roral CO2 is low). My xrays revealed that I have generalized demineralization of my joints. What I find troubling is my immunology. My ANA Multiplex was negative; however, my anti dsDNA was 5. The RF was <20 and both the Anti Cyclic Citrullnated Peptide and ENA Reflex say "See notes", but there are no notes on my report.

Can I assume that lupus is not my issue if my ANA is neg? How can my ANA be neg and the anti dsDNA is 5?

Posted 8/8/2008 3:12 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Vince'sMom,

 

Welcome to the forum. Your ANA can be negative and still have other positive antibody test results.  Lots of people get a lupus diagnosis with a negative ANA. That can change too.  It can go back and forth from positive to negative many times throughout our lives.  The immune system is complex and not easily understood which is why we don't have a cure for autoimmune diseases.

 

My best advice is to not put too much energy into trying to figure out your lab tests and what they mean. If you're dealing with an autoimmune disorder, it might not even make sense to the doctors in these early stages. A diagnosis is made with lab test results, and your symptoms. You also need to have at least 4 of the 11 criteria for lupus, in order for a rheumatologist to even consider a lupus diagnosis. You can find those criteria here....http://www.lupus.org/webmodules/webarticlesnet/templates/new_aboutintroduction.aspx?articleid=75&zoneid=9

 

Another good website for lab test results is www.labtestsonline.org. I haven't heard of most of the tests you mentioned in your posting.

 

You do have symptoms that are consistant with lupus though. Especially the Raynauds, sun sensitivity, and anemia. Are your joints disformed? I hope it's not RA.  Joint pain is another lupus symptom.  Did the rheumatologist give you any idea if it was RA, or are they waiting to see more progression or symptoms? 

 

 

 

 

Posted 8/8/2008 4:48 PM (GMT 0)
Hi and welcome. Ginny gave you some great advice and information and I don't have a lot to add. I just wanted to let you know that I am glad you found this forum - it's a great place for support and information. Going through the whole process of trying to get a diagnoses can be overwhelming and both physically and emotionally draining. Please ask any questions you have and keep us updated on what you find out from the docs.
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply