Arthritis Associated with Other Illnesses Q & A

I have been successfully treated for Rheumatoid Arthritis for the last 20 years. Currently on the Enbrel drug among others. Just recently, I have developed a spot of Shingles on the back of my neck. I am treating it also, however, is there a pronounced connection to Enbrel treatment and the appearance to Shingle?

my question is although I have had high rf tests of 441 ect… for probably 7 years now with no systoms of ra, can this be doing internal damage just by being in your blood? i understand i may experience it my future, but does this wreak havoc if unseen? with high rf numbers, also can the fact im a carrier of tb and did have hep c which I will always test positive for both antibodies, (was treated for and cures of both) (tb )being a carrier, as I came in contact with someone as a child and had hep non a & b in the 80;s and given meds that I was one of the 10% of pop that it cured. Are there other tests that

I have been having bloodwork at intervals for last 18 months, latest ANA positive 1:2560, screamingly high result as quoted by consultant haematologist however with negative DNA result. have been told Cannot be diagnosed as SLE but some type of auto immune disorder-generally feel unwell most of the time with pain throughout body, exhaustion, miscarried Feb 08-feel frustrated as no nearer to finding underlying cause or treatment-any advice much appreciated. regards andrea

Have you ever heard of Herpes causing arthritis? Similiar to how Shingles occur under stressful situations.

I have had shingles for 6 weeks and the inflamation has cleared up, but I am still suffering some chest and back pain and loss of some energy. Is there any current remedy available.

I was recently diagnosed with human parvovirus by a rheumatologist. The doctor who ran the test said that he is puzzled and unsure as to why the level of ImG in my blood is still high even though I have had symptoms, which have been worsening, for the past two months. Because the Voltaren originally prescribed for me did not do anything to relieve the pain or swelling, he would like me to start on prednisone. I am concerned because of the amount of fatigue that I have been experiencing and the amount of difficulty I am now having with me hands, wrists, ankles and feet. I would be interested in hearing the thoughts of someone on your staff regarding this virus and the treatments for it.