Lupus and RA? - Lupus Message Board

PINKYPRISCILLA · 10-14-2003, 11:15 AM

Does lupus cause rheumatoid arthritis or vice versa?

AngelicBrat · 10-14-2003, 11:46 AM

Hi

Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis are two totally different diseases, neither one causes the other BUT the two can co-exist in a person. Rheuamatoid Arthritis causes joint problems with joint breakdown, whereas Lupus generally causes joint pain and inflammation with no joint breakdown. Lots of people can have both diseases together. Hope this helps,

~Angelic

PINKYPRISCILLA · 10-15-2003, 09:15 AM

Hi Angelic,

My mom has both we went over her blood results yesterday
at the doctors office and her ana is high and her rheumatoid factor is also
high.

He changed his mind about trying other meds for now
and told her to increase her prednisone during this flare
up, we are going to the dermatologist tonight to see about the rash on her arm.

AngelicBrat · 10-16-2003, 12:20 AM

Hey ya Pinky!

How did the appt go with the dermatologist? Sounds like your mom is in a real flare! Hope the medication increase helps her feel better

~Angelic

PINKYPRISCILLA · 10-16-2003, 07:34 AM

Hi Angelic

Well the dermatologist isn't definitely sure that it is
a lupus rash She mentioned this other long name of another skin disorder that she has seen in RA patients so She took a biopsy of the rash and we will know in about a week or so....
My mom is so depressed and worried that she is getting worse and this really stresses me out too She has been
crying a lot. I just keep telling her that it will get better.....I hope.....
How are you? Do you have your symptoms under control?

[This message has been edited by PINKYPRISCILLA (edited 10-16-2003).]