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@jbrabazon The HLA-b27 test is a straightforward blood test. I tested positive and encouraged my sister to have it done by my rheumatologist (her symptoms have lasted longer and worse than mine), and she tested positive as well. He told her he wished he'd seen her 20 years earlier, she's already had 1 major lower spine surgery. I was started on hydroxycoroquine which has helped my back pain remarkably; she will be starting infusions. I also have Sjogren's and possibly RA. I think testing for all the possible things can go a long way towards choosing an effective treatment plan. Hang in there ❤️
Replies to "@jbrabazon The HLA-b27 test is a straightforward blood test. I tested positive and encouraged my sister..."
@fairn I had my blood work tested for the HLA-b27 gene marker and tested negative. Prior to that I tried my second dose of Remicade and had severe allergic reactions that included itching, lumbar back pain, hives, restriction in chest and reflux. I had Remicade infusions around 2006–7 for my UC. I understand that it is very possible to have an allergic reaction if you’ve had Remicade before even though it was 20 years ago. I did start low-dose naltrexone and I’m now at the 4.5 mg and since the Remicade failed plan to wait and see how my body reacts before, considering another alternative in a different class of drugs, such as Xeljanz or Rinvoq. I do have naturally high cholesterol, but my arteries are perfectly clear as determined by calcium scoring, but I am told that these 2 drugs could increase my cholesterol and that I might then require a statin. Right now I have less inflammation and more mobility in my shoulders, and my hip is not as painful. I also continue with PT for my shoulders and will be seeing an orthopedic spine doctor next week . to be continued …
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@fairn thank you for this information. I will talk with my rheumatologist because it would be good to know for both my son and my daughter.