blood tests

[Cryssann]

Took my daughter to her rheumy today got a copy of her previous lab results. I do not understand what all these are. There are a couple that are highlighted. Then have an H behind them, so I'm assuming high? This confused me so much. Dr is now saying he isn't giving her a confirmed DX of Sjogren's even tho all her papers say this is her diagnosis. Ugggggggg....  Can anyone help me figure these labs out?


Crys

[aussie mum]

Firstly Cryssann, my heart goes out to you as you search for a diagnosis for your daughter. I was in the same situation as you but my daughter was 16 when all her ailments became really noticeable.

If you have the time, try and post some of the results on this thread for more specific comments.

There are a few blood results doctors use when looking for Sjogren's. Just from the top of my head.....ANA, SSA, SSB, RF, CRP, ESR.  You also need to remember you can still have SJS without it showing in your blood.

I hope you don't have to go on the medical roundabout, but remember you can always get a 2nd opinion. My daughter is treated by an immunologist so if the Rheumies let you down, there is always other options.

Take care and hope you get answers soon.
Sending (((hugs))) to your daughter from Australia.
Aussie Mum

[Cryssann]

Her platelet count is 403. Norm is 183-369. Her Lymph # is 4.44 norm is 1.1-3.5. Her Centromere An lgG is 127 and norm range is 0 to 40. I have no ideas what these even mean. ANA just says detected. I wish I knew what all the letters for the different tests meant. It makes no sense to me.

Crys

[Nancy60]

Lab tests online is a good resource in trying to understand blood tests.  But to put them all together to figure out what is going on, you really need to ask her doctor.  You could call and ask. Tell him you have some questions from her appointment the other day.

Write down specific questions, such as what does the high platelet count mean, the high lymphocytes, etc... What do you think is going on, are there things we should be doing, things we should be careful about, what do we do next?  Do we need to see a different specialist?  Is there anything we can do int the meantime about her pain,fatigue, etc...  When do we need to come back to see you. 

I always have a list of what I want to bring up, ask etc. at doctor appointments. I'm probably better at it now since I have been going to see so many over the years.

Let us know what you find out

Nancy