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Arthritis (Expert Forum)
Any relationship between Agent Orange and Rheumatoid Arthritis
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin Pho, MD
Boston - MA
This forum is for questions and support regarding arthritis issues such as: Arthritis, Autoimmune Disease, Bursitis, Fibromyalgia, Gout, Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, Myositis, Neuralgia, Osteoarthritis, Polymyalgia Rheumatica, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Sciatica, Tendinitis, Vasculitis.
Any relationship between Agent Orange and Rheumatoid Arthritis
by bigal2006, Feb 06, 2006 12:00AM
I was exposed to Agent Orange mists (sprayed) and a week later to fumes (brush sprayed earlier was burning).
I was just diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. No one in my family has ever has this or anything related. All are healthy including five siblings and my 80 y/o parents.
I am 57 y/o and sprayed in my early 20's while in Vietnam (1968-69).
My first daughter died (1972)of spina bifida and that was followed by eight years and 12-13 mis-carriages and spontanious abortions (late term mis-carriages). During that time I also experienced low liver function and was treated for that with vitamin B complex.
I have had good health except for chronic upper back,lower back and hip pains for the last 10 years.
I was just diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. No one in my family has ever has this or anything related. All are healthy including five siblings and my 80 y/o parents.
I am 57 y/o and sprayed in my early 20's while in Vietnam (1968-69).
My first daughter died (1972)of spina bifida and that was followed by eight years and 12-13 mis-carriages and spontanious abortions (late term mis-carriages). During that time I also experienced low liver function and was treated for that with vitamin B complex.
I have had good health except for chronic upper back,lower back and hip pains for the last 10 years.
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Feb 07, 2006 12:00AM
, Feb 07, 2006 12:00AM
I am not aware of a specific association between Agent Orange and rheumatoid arthritis. However, on my research, I found some small studies that may suggest a connection - but there is no consensus agreement on this.
Rheumatoid arthritis strikes at a peak onset between ages 30 and 55 - so being diagnosed at age 57 is not an uncommon presentation.
I would discuss this possible association with your rheumatologist.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_b
Rheumatoid arthritis strikes at a peak onset between ages 30 and 55 - so being diagnosed at age 57 is not an uncommon presentation.
I would discuss this possible association with your rheumatologist.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_b
