What is the difference between lupus and Sjogren's?

[plunk656]

I think the real question that I am asking is, how does the doctor tell the difference between the two? I hope you all don't get upset that I ask soooo many questions, but I really feel that the doctors here are not as motivated as I am about getting answers that I need. You all are a great big help and I really appreciate you all taking time out of your day to answer my questions. God Bless all of you!

[kim31072]

In SLE the Anti ds-dna is one of the tests that is specific to SLE.SSA & SSB are sjogrens markers.If you dont test pos for any you may have to rely on a dr that will treat you for symptoms w/o blood markers.A high ANA is more indicative of a AI illness and they can also do a lip biopsy for Sjogrens and often the Rheumatiod Factor will show pos with no indication of Rheumatoid present(no disfiguration of joints)

[Jesse88]

Plunk, don't worry about asking questions.  I'm sure I'm not alone when I say that we really do understand your need for answers, and the doctors can't or won't always give us the answers we need.  I know that's why I ask questions here.  I get better information that fills in the cracks of my knowledge and it's so very helpful.  So keep asking.  Your questions will very likely help others too with similar interests.

As to the answer to your question, I'm not much help there.  I know my RD suspected Sjogren's for a long time before he finally decided I definitely had it, and I believe he was basing it on blood work, even though I don't have dry eyes or mouth.  But he also suspects lupus, though he's only pretty sure about that.  Though I have a high ANA, apparently all my clinical symptoms don't add up, only some of them.  In the end, I'm not sure how much difference it makes because they seem to be almost the same, as far as what they can do to the body, and the treatment is the same.  I understand why you ask this question, though.  It helps to have things pinned down as much as possible, doesn't it?  It sort of makes me feel like I have some control (even if I don't really). 

[dbab]

Plunk,  It does get confusing, doesn't it?  I have undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD) but my doctor suspects I have Lupus/Sjogren's overlap.  I have a positive ANA, positive anti-Ro, low WBC, and elevated CRP and ESR.  I have dry eyes, very minimal dry mouth, and lupus type rashes (discoid and subacute) along with joint, muscle and bone pain and neuropathy and paresthesia and I have had one absent seizure that may or may not have been related - haven't done my MRI yet.

The good news is  that the treatment is about the same for both (Plaquenil, prednisone, etc) so I know that I'm being taken care of whether its one or the other or both. 

edited for spelling

[spacoli]

My ANA was off the charts...then again, my right parotid was so swollen for 5 days i couldnt eat and lost 12 lbs.  Positive for SSA and SSB.  My Rheumy told me about heart block and tossed me on Placquinil until i lost my short term memory.   I went off even though they didnt think that was a side affect of the med.  My ENT and eye doc said Lupus was a great possibility but it is taboo to even think or test.   I definately have SS but could i have Lupus?  Who knows.  What blood test can confirm Lupus other than SSA, SSB, ANA?  I had a bunch i just dont know what they mean.  Do i even want the dx?  Why does my husband blame everything i complain about (pain, tired, joints, etc) on old age....he just doesnt get it.

[navydad]

Your husband doesnt understnad becasue he has no idea what your going through,, I;m basically in the same boat,, how can you tell someone what pain is and ave them understand it,, I got the old age told me so many times I wanted to scream,, now that its gotten worse its even harder to explain to doctors and family just how bad it is,, its like I told my doctor yesterday,, I feel like a caged animal, everyone coming by, poking sticks at me and just to tired to care anymore

[Scottietottie]

Hi Spacoli 

Welcome to Sjogren's world.

If you would like to write a bit about yourself in the 'Newbies' thread - you will get more welcomes. It's not compulsory though! 

I hope you find the site useful.

Take care - Scottie      (and YES - it's NOT old age!)

[Katybarstool]

Hi Spacoli

Welcome to the family. I was so sick of being told it was my age, the menopause, or just a bit of wear and tear, that I was finally delighted to get a  diagnosis.

I hope you find the Sjoggie family helpful, and that you join in lots of discussions.

Best

Kathyx