Lupus???

Hi
I have an appointment with a rheumolotolgist in June.   I just have a few questions.  I have some brain problems two T2 hyperintensities and some scarring and some spinal fluid and a small angioma.  I also wake up some mornings with joint pain.
I get weird rashes and lately I've broken out in a rash when it comes to UV rays. I also have developed some new allergies.
My last brain MRI showed sinus polyps.   My question is are all of these symptoms of Lupus. LAst year my ANA was taken but it wasn't high enough to say definitely Lupus my sed rate was elevated but again not high enough. My BUN ration was off but again not enough.     The sinus polyps are new, occasionally I get covered in canker sores on the inside of my mouth as well.   Could this possibly be Lupus or am I wasting the rhemoltologist's time. Thanks

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Lupus is possible. Here are some of the symptoms to look out for:

* Unexplained nonspecific symptoms such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, or anemia.
* Photosensitive rash
* Arthralgia or arthritis
* Raynaud phenomenon
* Serositis (pleuritis, pericarditis, peritonitis)
* Nephritis or nephrotic syndrome (protein in the urine)
* Neurologic symptoms such as seizures or psychosis
* Alopecia
* Phlebitis
* Recurrent abortion

In most cases, the ANA would be elevated - but this is not a 100% sensitive test.  Complement levels, as well as more specific auto-antibody tests like antiphospholipid antibodies, antibodies to double stranded DNA and anti Smith (Sm) antibodies can be considered.

These options can be discussed 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_

[ng804]

JUST MAKE SURE YOU KEEP YOUR APPOINTMENT ON JUNE.. I WAS VERY SURPRISE WHEN I FIND OUT I HAVE LUPUS.. THE CONSTANTLY HEADACHES, RED FLASHES ON MY FACE, SWELLING OF MY FEETS AND ANKLES,  AND HANDS, AND NOT BE ABLE TO WALK OR GO OUTSIDE WITHOUT SUNGLASSES.. NOW I HAVE PAINS EVERYWHERE, MY HIPS, MY BACK, MY VISION IS GETTING WORSE, MY HEADACHES AND SWELLINGS ARE BACK.. PREDNISON, PLAQUENIL AND METHOTRAXETE ARE ON MY SCHEDULE FOR LIFE.. MAKE SURE IF YOU HAVE LUPUS STAY AWAY FROM THE SUN.. I DIDNT LISTEN AND NOW IS TOO LATE  FOR ME...MY LUPUS IS GETTING WORSE .. SO LISTEN TO YOUR DOCTOR.. OK....