CRP=22 (which is why they tested for lyme) Lyme AB Equivocal 0.95 Western Blot (done by Quest labs) 58 IGG reactive 41 IGG reactive 23 IGM reactive ANA Positive ESR normal (but was slightly elevated back in Sept) Rheumatoid factor negative
Only symptoms mild joint aches, ringing in ears (that has been going on all summer), mild brain fog and word searching, and heart palpitations.
All started with episode of severe diarrhea lasting 1 month that resolved with dairy free diet(diagnosed as suddenly lactose intolerent) Colonoscopy negative for Crohns or ulcerative colitis. CRP was checked during the illness and again in November leading them to start to investigate other causes.
My primary care thinks I have some autoimmune disease and is sending me to rheumatologist. She also said I only have 3 out of 5 bands so this test is considered negative.
I have done a lot of reading online that these 3 bands are all lyme specific. I just want to know if I should push for antibiotics? Thanks for your help.
Posts: 8 | From United States | Registered: Jan 2016
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I'm certain more knowledgeable folks will come along soon, but I can tell you that the western blot from Quest will not accurately represent Lyme antibodies in your body.
A reference laboratory that checks against multiple strains for Lyme (Igenex in California) will give you a much better picture of what antibodies against Lyme your body is actually producing.
That being said, many Lyme-literate doctors consider even one Lyme-specific band significant if you have Lyme symptoms. And you definitely have at least one Lyme-specific band, even through Quest!
I wouldn't push your primary doc for antibiotics. If you really suspect Lyme, it would be best to find a Lyme-literate doctor (LLMD) and be properly tested, evaluated, and prescribed the correct combination of antibiotics if it is indeed Lyme. The antibiotics "regular" doctors prescribe will be insufficient to treat Lyme.
My primary doc also thought I had an autoimmune condition and gave me steroids. That was a big mistake. Steroids and other treatment for auto-immune conditions will just allow Lyme to grow.
So if you do really suspect it's Lyme, I'd find a LLMD and make that appointment ASAP.
I hope I was at least a little bit of help! Sam
Posts: 748 | From Texas | Registered: Feb 2015
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Judie
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 38323
posted
A lot of autoimmune diseases are actually symptoms of infection. The typical course of steroids for autoimmune problems will make you worse off in the long run.
I have 3 friends who were diagnosed with autoimmune problems and it was actually Lyme (proven Lyme positive after several years taking the wrong meds for the wrong diagnosis). Two were diagnosed with fibromyalgia and one with multiple sclerosis.
Find a Lyme doctor ASAP. My friend just got worse over the years. It took 2 years of urging for one of them to get evaluated for Lyme as her symptoms just got worse and worse.
Posts: 2839 | From California | Registered: Jul 2012
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