I went to the doc yesterday to get back on prednisone. Last summer I had something called erythema nodosum, which was on my right leg. It causes swelling and painful nodules. I was treated and tested for other conditions, but nothing came up. Now, exactly one year later I have another flare up of these nodules, only this time it is all around my right ankle. I've had it for about 2 months, but only now got treatment for it because of health insurance reasons. So, the doc I saw wants to test me for Rheumatoid arthritis as well as lupus. I am very nervous about all of this. I am 23 years old, and just can't imagine dealing with either one of these conditions for the rest of my life. My question is, I was not able to get these blood tests done, and won't be able to get them done for at the most 2 more weeks, once again because of health insurance. I need to find out if they will be covered first, because they are expensive tests to get stuck with the bill. Now, I have the Rx for prednisone, but if I begin taking it and the swelling as well as the nodules go away will this effect the blood work? I mean will it say if I have rheumatoid arthritis even if there is no flare up at the time? The pain is getting bad now, to the point that it hurts to wear shoes because the tongue of the shoes presses up against the front of the ankle, causing pain. Should I wait? I won't be able to get a hold of the doc until Tuesday with the holiday weekend. I don't know what to do.

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[This message has been edited by Vally1978 (edited 09-02-2002).]

Yes, go ahead and take the medicine as your doctor prescribed. Chances are since the lab tests were ordered by the Dr, they will be covered. The Prednisone wont interfere with the lab tests for Lupus and RA. Ive been on Prednisone for a month now and feel much better. Why go the whole weekend feeling lousy? He gave you the prescription so you would feel better. Just trust him and take it. Then call as soon as you can to find out if the labs are covered... or check on line on you health insurance website and see what your benefit package says. Most can be found online. Use your card and see. Lab work is expensive, but when a specialist orders it, most insurance companies dont fight it. Id also call your nurse and let her know that you wont be in as soon since your waiting on the labs. Or she might be able to tell you if your plan covers it... chances are she does since they signed up under it.

I wish you the best of luck!

Meg