Dealing with Chronic Pain and Misdiagnosis

I finally was able to get an appointment with a Rheumatologist today after years of experiencing ongoing back and joint pain. I had previously ordered myself an autoimmune panel, and tested positive for HLA-B27 Antibodies. Apparently this antibody occurs in around 10% of the population and as someone assigned female at birth he thinks it highly unlikely that I would have an inflammatory arthritic condition (see: Ankylosing Spondylitis). I've read peer reviewed articles that talk about women experiencing the same level of disability from AS while demonstrating less noticeable change on imaging. He believes I have FM but I don't know - my GP thinks that's highly unlikely. I feel like I'm going crazy.

Your answer

RMSjohns

1y ago

I am HLA-B27 positive and have Reactive Arthritis, more common in men. I also have Thyroid Disease and Sjogrens . All are autoimmune. Add Fibro and PTSD to the mix. I take 19 RXs, and another 4 as needed. I was disabled at 44, hated my situation since then. I do fun things when I feel my best. I still live life, but I miss a lot too. Like Christmas and Easter this year with my kids and grandsons. 😖

Foxlover

1y ago

I’m sorry I have arthritis too but I don’t know much about having it be inflammatory. Hopefully the doctors can help you and if you think you have something you should push them to check.

Kingswife

1y ago

Commonly known and experienced arthritis osteoarthritis, is not anything like autoimmune Arthritis.

Ankysaurus

1y ago

Also the majority of people who have as have no inflammatory markers on bloodwork but put us in mri and we light right up,

Ankysaurus

1y ago

I have ankylosing spondylitis and am hla b27 positive my as is non radiographic, plenty of women suffer I know 3 other personal friends who all have it, I also have fibromyalgia and severe ibs along with a few other bits, don't give up if you think you have as keep fighting so many old fashioned reamatologists out there that still believe it's a man's disease,

Kingswife

1y ago

The HLA B27 test will indicate whether you are at a greater risk for autoimmune conditions. Since it is positive, you are. However the results of your ESR, CRP, RF, Anti-CPP and ANA tests will ultimately be the ones to diagnose you. What were those results?

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