Question
I am a 26 year old female that has had joint pain (both sides ) for two years, mouth ulcers thought to be oral lichen planus, low platelet count 1x during a flare of joint pain, low grade fevers among alot of other things. I was sent to a rhuematalogist because my symptoms seemed to be lupus. However, my ana test came back 1:80 speckled and when tested again it was 1:80 homogenous. All other test, antibody test for lupus has come back negative. I had a face biopsy for a rash I had and it turned out to be rosecea. I did not have a lupus band test, I was told lupus band testing has been discontinued. My doctor is at a dead end and is referring me to see another rhuematalogist since he cannot figure me out. I have recently developed eye floaters and headaches but I am unsure if it is related to this. The rheumatalogist is referring me to see another rhuematalogist as he said he is confused about my symptoms. Do you recommend further testing and or monitoring? I do not think lupus causes eye floaters and headaches, what other diseases should be ruled out? thank you for answering my question.
Answer
Hi Sandra,
we really can’t diagnose illnesses over the internet. The diagnosis of rheumatic diseases depends on a careful history and physical examination, not just blood work. A second opinion is always a good idea if you feel frustrated.
