Rhuematoid arthritis but not

[aurora156]

I started having RA +other symptoms off and on in 2005, and it took me till 2008 to even find a doctor to take me seriously that my extreme fatigue was not depression, not to mention my variety of symptoms did not seem to fit into any disease.  Anyway, finally got tested in 2008 and my RF factor was normal (11), my sed rate was low (2) and seeing as it measures inflammation, highly likely I have RA, also iron was normal.  

SO my question is, what mimics the symmetrical joint pain that is worse after being still and in the morning symptoms of RA without being RA??

[justjess530]

Autoimmune disorders are elusive little invaders who like to hide their symptoms when the doctor is looking, and not show their true intentions on blood work for years!  It has been my experience so far with doctors including some rheumys, that they tend to not want to give you a diagnosis without the blood work to prove it.  Although according to their own guidelines a diagnosis can be given from  clinical observation, (IE having the pressure points sensitivity spots, unexplained fatigue, etc...)  

So to answer your question.... yes you can have autoimmune disorders that dont show up on blood work, or have your blood work come up an IN CONCLUSIVE/ Borderline/ High but not positive/ a high sed rate with a low ana, etc.  

Don't give up. Stay Positive.  Good Luck

[kmil1999]

My ANA is a little high, 1:160 mixed, 1:160 speckled, 1:160 homogenous, but no titers are positive.  So, the 2 rheumys said  not autoimmune.

When I went to neurologist, she said the color in my lower legs looked like I had an autoimmune dx?

I have heard through research that a few men had biopsies done and were later dx with autoimmune diseases.  So my question is:  is it possible to have an autoimmune disease and the titers not show it?  Or was it just a fluke in the couple of reports I saw in these men.  Or is there an autoimmune dx that doesn't have titers to check?

Thanks trudie or anyone that might have some insight.
Karen

[TrudieC]

Lupus can do this too.  You need a good rheumatologist to diagnose it by a combination of examination and lupus panel blood work.  

[kmil1999]

I think you have just asked the golden question.  

The pain/stiffness seems to be going around and no one has those answers.  Of the many symptoms I have been dealing with, edema in my hands, feet, and eyes in the morning along with the stiffness are hanging around all the time.  (It also happens if I sit too long too.)  

I know my cardiac function is good.  So what causes the swelling,stiffness and pain?  I'll echo your question and hope someone has the answer!  

Anyone?