Hepititis C and Rheumatoid Arthritis

[Dominique01]

Hello Dr.:

I have been diagnosed with Hep C, Genotype 3a. My question is, can this virus mimick Rheumatoid Arthritis?

I think I also have RA. My lower back, elbow(s), knee(s), shoulder(s), fingers (lower joints, burning), big toes and ankles, and even the my head are in pain. Excrutiating pain at night.

What could it be?

Thank you. Domininique01

[seabean]

Last week I went to a Rheumatologist and she told me there is a strain of HCV that mimics RA, it was the first I had heard of this.

Good luck.

[Dominique01]

Pertaining to hep C and SSDA. Has anyone had to apply? Has anyone been given the benefit? How long did it take? I wonder if I am even eligible. I have applied, 1 yr. and a 1/2 ago. I ran out of State Disability, 52 wks in CA.

I have Chronic Hepatitis C, Genotype 3a. I know it is a favorable type of Hep for treatment. 24 wks. I wonder is SSDA will deny because the Genotype 3a diagnoses.

Does anyone know about this. Thanks so much.

Dominique

[Dominique01]

Sorry if I spelled your name wrong. I can't remember from one page to the next. Thank you for your warm welcome to the forum. I am "the favorable genotype 3a." I'm just about ready for treatment. I am going to get a liver biopsy next week (for SSDA) purposes and for my general knowledge. I think I have a good Dr. already, but we have yet to see.

I'll stay posted and thanks again. Dominique01

[Kalio1]

Yes, Hep C can mimic RA. I hope your doctor is doing a PCR DNA test for you soon so you can find out your viral load and genotype if you don't have it now. You might want to research "extra hepatic manifestations" you will find reference to some of the things that can arise when you are positive for the Hep C virus. Try not to be too freaked out by the diagnosis, try to learn all you can. Knowledge helps to mitigate fear. There are a lot of things you need to find out about your condition before you can make a decision about what to do. Your best bet is to find the best liver doctor you can in your area who has lots of experience dealing with Hep C patients. THere is a ton o fmisinformation out there about Hep C, so your best bet is to do your own research and get the best doctor you can. Glad you found the forum, Welcome. There is a lot of knowledge to be had here and others with this disease. Stay positive.


here is a link to some info. I hope is helpful.

http://www.hcvadvocate.org/hcsp/articles/Bonkovsky-2.html

[HCA]

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Go to the 'Doctor to Patient Forums' and post your question under the relevant disease.