First rheumatologist apt next week

[Anabanana25]

I have my first rheumatologist appointment next week, referred my my haematologist for a second opinion due to complex medical issues over the last two to five years.

I have typed up my medical history and symptoms as well as having kept a pain diary which should help.

My question is, having not seen a rheumatologist before, what can I expect? Do they examine you, how? Do they send off for tests? What tests do they and can they ask for? Thanks 😊

[KellyInTexas Administrator]

It really depends on the doctor, but generally the doctor will say something like, “ I’ve reviewed all of your history and notes that your referring doctor included. Why don’t you tell he briefly your chief complaints.” He/ she will stop you and ask you questions along the way.

Then yes, an exam of joints, eyes, mouth, feet/ ankles.

Yes, blood work will be done. All to test for diseases in the connective tissue family.

[MaryF Administrator]

HI, hopefully in addition to the main tests for Hughes Syndrome/APS, probably tests to look at your Thyroid, Vit D, B12, Folate and Ferritin will also be ordered by them. Often inflammatory markers are also done. It is great that you have typed up your notes ready for the appointment, this will help you remember what you need to ask also! Best of luck, I hope it goes well. MaryF

[KellyInTexas Administrator in reply to MaryF]

Here, the inflammatory markers are part of the auto immune work up. It would be in tandem with the lupus panel, ( the Double stranded ANA, the standard ANA, ) the Scleroderma panel, the Sjögren’s panel, the RF , the CRP, the ANCA

The ANA is not conclusive of lupus in particular. It can simply be a marker of of an inflammatory process.

Mary, I’m stating this for Anabanana ‘s benefit- I do know you are well aware of this having been through the mill with your children.

I do think we in the USA are hit or miss with our specialists with regards to mineral (we say vitamin ) level testing, so thanks for the clarification. Some do/ some don’t. Sometimes it’s the Hematologist, sometimes the Rheumatoligist, but really it should be our internists. ( Advanced GP’s Specialist In organ systems in adults. )