I'm waiting to see a rheumatologist, my appointment is next week (finally!).
I've done a fair amount of research and feel that my symptoms fit in with RA (sero-negative) but also with Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease.
I've had a positive ANA (speckled 1:80) and my knees and fingers are obviously swollen, red, hot, sore and stiff. I have other symptoms like dry eyes, dry mouth, raynaud's, nose ulcers, moderate fatigue. My CRP, Complete Blood Count, Rheumatoid Factor and anti-CCP were normal. My Sed Rate was elevated late last year, but the doctor wont re-test it. I've had these symptoms for 9 months. I haven't had anymore tests done.
What would be the deciding factor between UCTD and seronegative RA?
I'm waiting to see a rheumatologist, my appointment is next week (finally!).
What would be the deciding factor between UCTD and seronegative RA?
Thanks.
Your doctor will be looking closely at your symptoms along with any labs that he/she might do. Hopefully you'll get a Rheumy that you can develop a good relationship with should you actually have an AI problem. Your Dr is a way better diagnostician than the internet but you should always be your own advocate. A fine line I know. And as a side note, you should know that UCTD oft times never develops into anything else! Keep your chin up and keep us posted!
Thanks for the reply. I know I'm not going to get a diagnosis online, but I've been told to rest and do nothing.. So it's a bit frustrating to be told to rest but not know why! I'm just trying to do some research to know what to expect.
Thanks for the reply. I know I'm not going to get a diagnosis online, but I've been told to rest and do nothing.. So it's a bit frustrating to be told to rest but not know why! I'm just trying to do some research to know what to expect.
AI issues can be difficult to pin down. The main issue is to get treatment, so rest up and consider it a part of your treatment plan. I know first hand about your frustration, but getting a name for what ails you can be a long process.
Sounds more like lupus and possible Sjogrens Syndrome, have you looked into those? Luckily your rheumy will check a wide range and that will help narrow it down. Good luck!!
The rheumatologist has ordered heaps of tests. I've got a few results back, my complete blood count had 2 things that were abnormal. The rheumatologist did the schirmer test for Sjogren's and she said it was normal. I'm having a chest x-ray for Sarcords too.
