Diagnoses of PBC not making sense anymore
I was diagnosed with PBC in Dec 2017. I started feeling very fatigued with joint pain in my wrists, fingers, elbows, hips and knees. My GP sent me to a Rheumatologist who repeated the nlood tests and tested more.
My RNP number was 6.5 a month ago and is now 6.7. The dr said I don’t have enough of the symptoms for him to make a diagnosis of MTCD. He wants me to redo the blood work I’m 4 months. My husband doesn’t think that’s an answer. Any suggestions?
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Autoimmune Diseases Support Group.
Hello @lcmcphee -- Welcome to Connect. I can certainly understand why you would feel frustrated. Here is a link on Mayo Clinic's website that describes the Test ID: RNP -- RNP Antibodies, IgG, Serum:
-- https://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/test-catalog/Clinical+and+Interpretive/81357
There is also a page on Mayo's website that discusses Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) that may be helpful to read through the diagnosis & treatment along with the lifestyle and home remedies and more here:
-- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/primary-biliary-cholangitis-pbc/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20376880
I'm also tagging @rosemarya to see if she might have some suggestions. She has posted in an old discussion about PBC but it hasn't had any new posts since 2012:
-- https://connect.mayoclinic.org/comment/4920/bookmark/e6250d439c9f868fc53ca3800e7a41d943be7dd0ecfdda6ae585394ec5df74d5/
@lcmcphee did the rheumatologist describe the symptoms that would make him think you have MTCD? I would ask him to tell you his reasons as this might prompt you for some more why questions. There's nothing wrong with getting a second opinion if you feel you are not getting answers.
John
Thank you for the links.
The fatigue, joint pain and RNP number led him to considering MTCD. But I don’t have large clumps of hairless or a rash
@lcmcphee , I join John in extending a welcome to you. I see that you mentioned that you were diagnosed with PBC in Dec 2017. Some of your symptoms (fatigue and joint pain and swelling) are also mentioned in the link for PBC that John has included in his message.
I understand the frustration that you are experiencing. I was diagnosed with a liver disease PSC (Primary sclerosing cholangitis) It is also a disease that affects the bile ducts with some connection to autoimmune condition. My PCP, sent me to a gastroenterologist (GI) for treatment of the liver disease. Are you being treated/monitored by a GI for your PSC?
Hello @lcmcphee,
I'd also like to introduce to a few members who've discussed autoimmune hepatitis – a type of autoimmune liver disease that sometimes occurs in patients with PBC. Please meet @luserm1, @atorset, @myminnie @gretagean, @mommynumberone, @avonlady38, @vmbreier, @eroch, @lady1994, @klisa24, @billylin, @lizhope33, @gabrella; I’m certain they would be able to offer more insight.
May I ask if your doctor has prescribed any medications or suggested any changes in diet and lifestyle to mangae this condition?
He said that I didn’t exhibit enough other symptoms for him to start any meds other than pain meds if I want them which I dont
Yes my gastro is also a liver expert. I think the RMP number has triggered the need for more testing. They don’t believe it is from the PBC as my liver enzymes have been good since starting the ursdiol
I need advice! During my last pregnancy, at the age of 43, I experienced several episodes of a skin rash following sun exposure. Red, nickel-sized, raised welts on my upper arms, torso and back. Funny thing, the rash didn't itch rather it hurt deep in my tissue. I miscarried at 16-weeks, 8 weeks later I saw a Dermatologist and I just so happened to have this rash at the time of my appointment. The Dermatologist performed a skin biopsy. The results came back with a positive ANA 1:6.4, homogenous, all other "Antibodies" negative, except a high anticardiolipin IgM antibody. During my first trimester I had an elevated d-Dimer - 2.51(i.e, increase risk for a pulmonary embolism). CT scan was negative.
Fast forward 10 years: I have an official diagnosis of SubAcute Cutaneous Lupus, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Osteoarthritis of my lower back/cervical spine, R Sciatica with radiculopathy and neuropathy, Chronic Kidney stones, proteinuria/hematuria, borderline thrombocytopenia, tendinitis of R shoulder/elbow, joint pain with morning stiffnes, PTSD encompassing insomnia/social behavior disorder/anxiety/major depressive disorder, mucosal sores, alopecia, hx of infections (e.g. urinary tract, kidney, candidiasis, bacterial vaginosis, chronic bronchitis, herpes zoster), metacarpalpharengeal and bilateral wrist neuropathy, occasional swelling in hands/feet, cognitive dysfunction (i.e, memory loss, inability to maintain focus/concentration, disorganization, low tolerance), headaches/migraines, dizziness with occasional vertigo and syncopal episodes, IBS, GERD, OSA with CPAP, and PLMD, Pleuritic chest pain, SOB, Premature Atrial Contractions, COPD, and decreased Diffusion Lung Capacity. The only symptom I do not have is "weight loss!" Go figure! Thanks menopause! Lol
I am a twin and my mother has Crohn's Disease. In the past 10 years I have seen a total of 5 Rheumatologists both in the private sector and within the VA healthcare system. That is where I am currently receiving my healthcare. I cannot get my Rheumatologist to listen to me regarding Systemic Lupus. What to do?
You have a lot of symptoms of Cushing. Have you ever gotten your cortisol checked? Have pituitary and kidneys checked for adenomas
You must be one strong woman, usafretired15!
Welcome to Connect, @usafretired15. I have to admit, I really admire your sense of humor in the midst of dealing with so much!
I'd like to introduce you to @regeanna @whyus @butterflygirl @tunkins1 @oregongirl @virginiasenior @helloshelly7969 @wmoser2613 @cathyh @petersen73 @rayhastings @aimeenc as they've discussed similar issues and I hope they will return to share their experiences.
I also found a few discussions that might interest you:
– Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/systemic-lupus-erythematosus-sle/
– Tumid Lupus with SLE Symptoms?: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/tumid-lupus-with-sle-symptoms/
– Have a few autoimmune disorders – now have consistent low grade fever https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/have-a-few-autoimmune-disorders-now-have-consistent-low-grade-fever/
@usafretired15, since you mentioned, "I cannot get my Rheumatologist to listen to me regarding Systemic Lupus," may I ask if they've given you an explanation?