Got my lab results. What does this mean?

[Angelmom]

I just got my results.

My SSA is -.2 (negative POINT 2).
My SSB is .3 (point 3)

The nurse on the phone said my liver, kidney, and thyroid tests were all "normal."  So I guess the doc assumes I do not have Sjogren's even though I have just about every symptom and have for years.  He tried to explain away my dry eyes by saying it was due to be taking Claritin.  But I told him that I'd only been on Claritin for a couple of years and have had dry eyes for 16 years.  Also I recently went for about 1 1/2 mos. without my Claritin and the dry eye symptoms did not change at all.  I told the rheumy this, but he didn't seem to know what to say. 

Where do I go from here?

[louise]

Lip biopsy and find a new doctor.

[gurs]

Ditto!!!

[Redetha1]

My blood test were normal.  My lip biopsy show Sjogrens.  My ENT did a lip biopsy for me.  Try and find another doctor.  We have to shop for the right doctor now -- just like the right shoes.  It is a shame but it is true.  Good luck.  Hugs!!!!

[JannaLee]

Yes, honey you have to keep at it till you find a doc that will help you.

Also start a symptom diary.  Keep notes of dates, frequency, etc.

Don't give up.  We know how frustrated and invalidated you feel!
Janna

[Patze]

Hi Angelmom,

I too would look for a second opinion, and maybe you'll be able to find a physician that will treat your symptoms without having to get a lip biopsy.

Hang in there and take care of yourself -

Patze

[Epson]

Angelmom,

What was your ANA?

[DebCMH]

Refer to my response to loobee's post.....antibody tests all negative...could my hashimotos be to blame not sjogrens ?

[Thelma]

Hi I'm new here. My name is Thelma, 46 y.o. Have had dry eyes forever now they've dried up to a crisp.  They are sooooo red and it's just so embarrassing.

I've been on restasis for about 3 years. This dryness just set in about 3 weeks ago. Nothing I do rehydrates my eyes.  I use Systane, Genteal gel during the day. Genteal ointment before bed. Nothing is helping!  What can I do?

I'm going for my lip biopsy on May 10.  What should I expect?  Will my lip hurt after the procedure?

Thelma

[Angelmom]

They did not check my ANA as far as I know.

[JannaLee]

Thelma,

I've not had the lip biopsy, but many others have.  The after effects range from nearly painless and perfect recovery in a couple days to considerable discomfort leading to chronic numbness in that area.

The results range from; Positive, Negative, not enough cells to determine, borderline, etc.

Apparently, it depends on the skill of the professionals.  From what I understand there are 3 important things that require experienced and qualified medical specialists; It is important the surgeon gets enough of the specific cells, and without damaging nerves.  It is also very important that the lab be knowledgeable in reading the slides.

Standard advice from this site is; if you get a negative result but still feel pretty sure you have Sjs, you should get a second opinion.  You can take the slides to another lab, or do the whole thing over again. 

Hope this helps you!
Good luck!
Janna

[navydad]

Sometimes I thnk the only time I will show positive is at my autospy,,, as for Lip biopsy,, I had it,, only showed some fibrosis,, then when the neuro stuff started,, I had a punch biopsy,,, SFN,,, then they had me get a sural nerve biopsy,,, didnt show much,,, but having that done left the left side of my foot numb forever,,, how ever long ever is,,
  Find another doctor,, one that will listen,, go online and do a search for Physicians in your area,, a lot of sites give you patient ratings of these doctors,, oh,, as for my lip biopsy,, I am still numb there

[Thelma]

OMG navydad, I'm sorry you've had such horrible experiences! Is your entire lower lip numb?

Thanks for your reply too JannaLee!  I'm scared now!

This is what the doctor who is doing my biopsy says his Special Interests are:
Chronic Cough; Esophageal Disorders; Hoarseness; Larynx Cancer; Larynx Lesions; Salivary Gland Tumors and Disorders; Throat Problems; Voice and Swallowing Problems; Zenker's Diverticulum

He really was awesome at diagnosing me with Laryngopharyngeal Reflux!

[navydad]

Sounds like you found teh right guy,,,, its really no big deal,, like I said,, it all depends who does it,, some use the right tools,, I think mine used a sharp roack from the parking lot

[Thelma]

It's good to see that you at least still have sense of humor!

I really like this guy and I pray he does a good job on me.