I wanted to offer an update, for anyone that was following…I saw a dermatologist in January that biopsied the red rash on my arm. When I went back for the results two weeks later she said that she had personally spoken to the pathologist because the report was unclear/ conflicting. They determined that they were going to call it psoriasis with overlaying eczema/ dermatitis. She gave me a biological cream to use and wanted me to start Rinvoq (jak inhibitor, I believe) based on my other symptoms. I had to get more blood work and wait for an approval process to happen to actually get this drug. In the meantime (I was left waiting for weeks to receive an update about this drug approval and the call actually came while I was at my rheumatologist appointment ironically), I got in to see the rheumatologist. He was very different then the one I saw years ago that treated me horribly and after reviewing my results and examining me, he stated that he does not believe that I have psoriasis whatsoever and that I am the clinical picture of Lupus. He was unbothered by my past negative ANA results and told me to not start the Rinvoq, he was prescribing me hydroxychloroquine. I have just started this medication and am feeling hopeful for the first time in a long time. I go back April 1st to see how I am responding. He said we will repeat the ANA at some point, he is slightly concerned that without a positive result he may be limited in treatment options. I have been battling a roller coaster of emotions but am just thankful that someone finally listened and named the beast that I have been battling for so long.
Thank again for the support that so many of you offered when I came here feeling desperate and overwhelmed. I never knew that strangers words could mean so much. ❤️