My immunologist put it bests: we use the tests we HAVE, not the tests we NEED. In my case I have severe autoimmune problems, but not elevated autoantibodies!
Autoimmune means that our immune system attacks our selves, Auto means self.
My immune system doesn't use auto antibodies to attack me, it uses Cytokines. BOTH are products of the Immune System. But all the tests for autoimmune diseases do not test cytokines, only autoantibodies.
Just remember this when you are dismissed as having "no autoimmune' disease.
My immunologist is professor at Duke Medical, doing research in CVID, teaching graduate students and medical students and seeing only patients with CVID. She is brilliant and know her stuff.
She identified my Primary Immune Deficiency, and I now have infusions of 50 grams of Gamma Globulin EVERY 4 weeks, since 2013.
But the Gamma Globulin only keeps me from getting infections month.
YOU know what's happening to you, but they are probably using the only tests they have, not the tests you need.
It is so hard when doctor's dismiss us because of their ignorance.
Elaine