Does persistent joint pain make you suspect systemic lupus? What doctor should carry out diagnostics?
All my joints have been aching for a long time and I am exhausted. I’m afraid it might be lupus. Who should I go to? ~ Sophie
Systemic lupus is a serious condition that affects, in addition to the joints, the serous membranes, kidneys, heart muscle, central nervous system, and skin. It is usually turbulent, and arthritis is a temporary swelling. Abnormalities in the blood count include leukopenia, anemia and thromboctytopenia. There is a butterfly-shaped erythema on the skin of the face, which is hypersensitive to sunlight. Very common is exudative pleurisy and pericarditis and glomerulonephritis. Thus, joint problems alone do not warrant the suspicion of systemic lupus – it is a rather unlikely diagnosis. In the described case, the first suspicion is advanced degenerative disease or rheumatoid arthritis. In order to make a final diagnosis, contact a rheumatologist who, after a physical examination and laboratory tests, will make the final diagnosis.
The advice of medTvoiLokons experts is intended to improve, not replace, the contact between the Website User and his doctor.
The website is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Before following the specialist knowledge, in particular medical advice, contained on our Website, you must consult a doctor. The Administrator does not bear any consequences resulting from the use of information contained on the Website.
The best rheumatologist in your area