VATS BIOPSY RESULTS FINALLY

[rottiro1]

Hi,

I have posted a few times. I had a VATS lung biopsy and have a general diagnosis FINALLY. They first told me they were almost sure I had constrictive Bronchiolitis (thanks for those that have it who were so kind and helpful). The biopsy showed Cellular Interstitial Pneumonitis and most likely Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis. I also have poorly defined giant cell granulomas. The good news is that at this point it's inflammatory and not yet fibrotic so the general prognosis is more hopeful but still a complex Diagnosis. They say it can be from Drug Toxicity or Autoimmune issues as I am ANA positive, or from inhaling from environment and my immune system can't respond like the normal person. So I am now on Prednisone 20 mg and Bactrim for 4-6 weeks. Sometimes prednisone short term can help reverse symptoms but sometimes it becomes chronic and they would put me on Cellcept (Immune Suppressant usually for transplants). I hope to avoid that as they lead to other diseases like cancer as I learned the hard way when losing my dad who had a kidney transplant. But I am being positive and hopeful that it can be reversed or slowed and at least I can function better. My DLCO and oxygen exchange have been decreasing. I am also on Symbicort that helps a lot. Anyone who has any experiences to share about this diagnosis or info about Prednisone, Bactrim or immune suppressant drugs would be appreciated. VATS was not as bad as I thought except for the very painful chest tube. I chose no pain killers as I didn't want to feel sick so I think I had more pain than most. But I am healing well and it's only the third week after. It is very worth having the biopsy if you can't get a diagnosis without it as it's best to know what you have so the treatment plan is appropriate. Thanks for all of the support.

[sassy59]

I wish you well with your recovery rottiro and just want to mention that Pete has granulomas due to sarcoidosis and takes 10mg of pred per day now. Xxxxxx

[Katinka46]

Hello and apologies again for missing thid post. It does sound hopeful, especially as your test results are showing an improvement.

All the best and keep in touch.

Kate xx

[rottiro1 in reply to Katinka46]

You were so nice and helpful so thank you. I hope you are doing well

[Carnival567]

I’m glad everything went well and you are beginning to feel better xx

[Dubaigirl]

Hi

I have been diagnosed with pneumonitis....can you tell my what it’s called in the uk

And how are you doing now ?