Newbie with Sjogrens and SCLE with lots of questions!

[babsinga]

Hi,

Glad to be here! I hope all of you can help me answer some questions! My problems started a few years ago when I had chronic anemia and occult blood in my stools. For three years and two gastroenterologists later, I was told I had Crohns disease due to ulcers found in my ileum. After biopsy, I was told it was not Crohns and I was told to get my labs done every 6 months.  All along, I suspected I had an autoimmune disorder. In my 30's I had pain in my back teeth that ran down my face. After 1/2 dozen dentists could not figure out the cause, I was put on antibiotics for a salivary gland infection when they discovered my glands were swollen.  I have chronic GERD, osteoarthritis which resulted in a two level cervical fusion on my neck, DeQuervains surgery on my wrists, carpal tunnel surgery and myriad of facial and scalp rashes that are photosensitive and never seem to go away.  I had positive ANA direct with anti-SSB antibodies. No RA.

My new rhematologist said I have mild Sjogrens and sub acute cutaneous lupus.  They were going to followup with additional labs to see if I had systemic lupus although he did not think this was the case. My first labs were done by my primary care physician through Labcorp with an ANA with reflex. The second labs done by rheumie showed negative ANA and SSA/SSB.  The lab results showed an elevated SPEP and Iga and IgM out of normal range. There was also a note from the lab that said : Non specific polyclonal type increase in gammaglobulins. It also said hypergammaglobulinemia mgng.

Everything I have read indicates that there is a correlation between increased polyclonal gammaglobulin related to connective tissue disease and autoimmune disorders.  What scares me more is the reference to hepatitis and liver disease.  So here goes all my questions coming from a newbie who spends too much time on the internet: lol

How many of had the ANA direct with reflex from Labcorp? I understand that this one is different since it does not include titers, just positive or neg on ANA and then a reflex of other antibody tests for positive.

How many had a positive test for Sjogrens antibodies and then a negative ANA done at another lab?

Do any of you have elevated SPEPs, polyclonal gammopathy or any liver/ kidney dysfunction?

My mouth is kinda dry, I do have trouble swallowing sometimes and I have periodontal disease b ut no cavities.

My eyes get blurry and bother me but I still have tears.

No problems with feminine dryness issues as of yet, but I realize that I am perimenopausal and this could happen anyway..... eeeeeek...


I guess I am looking for answers...........

Babs in GA

[Joe S.]

Welcome to the forum, babsinga. I am sorry that I have nothing to tell you tonight (tired) I will try later this week.

[KellyG999]

Welcome, Babs.

I am sero-negative, so I can't help much on the bloodwork questions. I do have a very high RA Factor, dry mouth/throat, dry eyes and all the aches and pains of SjS.

These folks on the board have helped and supported me tremendously. I am sure you'll find lots of great people and info.


KellyG

[Scottietottie]

Hi Babs 

Welcome to Sjogren's world. I'm afraid I'm another with no specific annswers but I'm sure someone will come along soon who knows more.

If you type a topic into the search box at the top right of the screen old topics come up and you may find some more info that way.

I hope you find the site useful.

Take care - scottie 

[babsinga]

Hi Again and Thanks!

All information is useful. I am learning as much as I can !  Babs

[Narablueeyes]

Hi Again and Thanks!

All information is useful. I am learning as much as I can !  Babs

Hey Babs!  Welcome and sorry, I'm another with no answers except for the girly girl thang.  I use Replens with positive results.