Bone Scan to test for Sjogrens?

[anita]

I would agree with others that Rituxan is NOT the best course of action for you and that you need a second opinion (if your bone scan is positive).

BTW, Rituxan is NOT FDA approved for sero-negative sjogren's.  I have no idea how he would get your insurance to pay (and it costs thousands) base upon a positive bone scan and a positive eye test (schirmer's, I guessing).  That is NOT what it is meant for.  Rituxan depletes the B cell activity caused by AI disease.  He needs to prove there IS an autoimmune process causing the inflammation and I would guess it needs to be much more then arthritis to get approval.  Most patients receiving Rituxan have SEVERE extra-glandular activity (lungs, cardiac, GI, and neuropathy) that cannot be controlled with other meds.  Good doctors would actually TRY other meds before prescribing Rituxan.  This is really scary what he's suggesting.

Keep us posted.

[Nancy60]

Go get a second opinion, if they recommend the bone scan then maybe consider it.  You need to talk to your GP about everything this doctor is suggesting to get his take on it too since he knows you and your medical history.  I would call and cancel the bone scan if I were you!
You can always get it later if there is a good reason to get it!

Nancy

[deeindiana]

I asked my rheummy at the Un of Michigan Med Center about the bone scan. He shrugged and said that he would only order it for SjS if he saw ample symptoms to lead him to believe there was a problem -- or if he was convinced it would be a problem in the future and wanted a base image. I hope that helps.
Deb

[Explorer]

Thanks so much for asking deb!  Ive decided not to go ahead with it and put the money towards a second opinion instead. The fact that he was so dismissive of me in the GP letter makes a bone scan a bit extreme!

Thanks again 

[bsnook]

My rheumy is a specialist in Lupus w/a big outside practice.  He donates a day to the clinic program of the county hospital.  I am glad I got him.  He is very knowledgable and has a good manner.

I had a bone density scan 2 years ago.  He scheduled me for one this past week.  It was only for my lower extremities, because that is where my problems are manifesting themselves. 

I injured myself at work in 2006 and had some back x-rays.  I was surprised when the doctor said "You know you have arthritis in your back and neck, don't you?"  I knew I did in my knees and feet.  I didn't in my back and neck, but I sure do now.  I was a lot more active back then.

You should definitely get a second opinion.  Try researching the Dr.s in your area on line first to finf someone.

Just another newbies thoughts!!!!