| Newbie, Two years after Lupus diag
I have been reading the message board but thought I'd add my two cents, especially about the diagnostic process.
About three years ago, we noticed that whenever I worked outside, I'd develop this strange rash on my face. My rash would eventually go away, but it would peel almost like a sun burn. Then I started developing a rash on the lower part of my leg that just never went away. The rashes itch horribly and I scratched them until they were raw. But after using all kinds of ointments they would not go away.
So I went to see a dermatologist who said he thought I had psoriasis. He took a huge hunk out of my leg and sent it off for testing. Nothing.
So then I went to see an allergist. After some testing and bloodwork, she noticed elevated ANA levels and told me I should see a rheumatologist. She said, It could be something like lupus. Then she said, "No she's always booked up, I will call and get you an appt."
After two rounds of bloodwork, she told me I had SLE, Lupus, primarily of the skin at this point. That was two years ago. I have been on plaquanil and prednisone ever since. The rashes continue, plus I have fatigue and a lot of joint pain especially in my fingers.
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