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The 11 criteria used for diagnosing systemic lupus erythematosus are: malar (over the cheeks of the face) "butterfly" rash discoid skin rash: patchy redness that can cause scarring photosensitivity: skin rash in reaction to sunlight exposure mucus membrane ulcers: ulcers of the lining of the mouth, nose or throat arthritis: two or more swollen, tender joints of the extremities pleuritis/pericarditis: inflammation of the lining tissue around the heart or lungs, usually associated with chest pain with breathing kidney abnormalities: abnormal amounts of urine protein or clumps of cellular elements called casts brain irritation: manifested by seizures (convulsions) and/or psychosis blood count abnormalities: low counts of white or red blood cells, or platelets immunologic disorder: abnormal immune tests include anti-DNA or anti-Sm (Smith) antibodies, falsely positive blood test for syphilis, anticardiolipin antibodies, lupus anticoagulant, or positive LE prep test antinuclear antibody: positive ANA antibody testing I have the following out of the list: -photosensitivity(i burn very easy and even as a child applying spf 50 sunblock every 6 hrs and wearing a t-shirt i still got blisters) -ulcers(I have mouth ulcers in my mouth, gums, throat, tongue, etc for as long as i can remember both painful and not) -arthritis(thought I had growing pains growing up but read up on it and they only occur at night..I had my pain day and night. Now I have sharp pain in my virtually all my joints and a leg ache that can go from my feet to my hips. I also have a warm feeling from my knees up into my hips as well) -brain irritation(i was diagnosed with idiopathic seizures(unknown cause) at age 15 and still have abnormal brain waves. Also suffered at 2 yr depression with problems with "cutting" etc.) -blood count abnormalities(at 15 was told to have iron deficiency anemia but was not treated. Was diagnosed again a month or so ago by my PCP and put on 325mg of ferrous sulfate once a day) She also did an ESR and ANA test which were both negative. However we all know there are more tests to be done and like you said they go by symptoms as well which I have more of. Looking and researching hasnt turned up any other possible disease that fits my symptoms as well so Im still going with Lupus. Hopefully I will still get some answers. Questions, comments are welcome  Thanks for the support -Brit |
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