Pmr blood test

[Shandon1]

How often for a blood test after taking prednisalone for about two years? Down to 2 and a half pred now.

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

I have mine done about every 3 or 4 months - mainly for my own peace of mind, and out of interest. Just to ensure everything on track, although any change in symptoms would probably tell me beforehand.

My current GP doesn't place a lot of importance on them this far down the line (almost 4 years on Pred and down to 2mg), says symptoms are a much more reliable indicator.

[polkadotcom]

I've had regular blood tests the whole way through, but how often was decided sometimes by the meds I was on (weekly for methotrexate when I first began taking it). I now have them three/four months usually. The surgery are pretty good at spotting problems and sorting them and me out!

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Hehe - I've just been to the GP and she realised it will be 2 years in April since the last "cover all" test. I've had odd things in between in fairness! ESR/CRP are meaningless for me so it isn't that essential to have frequent ones luckily - because I have to pay for mine!

[piglette]

I have a blood test every three to four months. I tend to organise it and my GP phones up if there are any funny results. I normally have ESR, CRP, U and E and Full Blood Test. I do have others less often, such as glucose and vitamin D. Like Dorset Lady I have them for my own peace of mind and interest.

[Caro12line]

I have bloods done every 6 weeks. My GCA is in my Aorta and Subclavian and nobody seems to be sure of signs of flare. So as I am tapering (using Dead Slow method) I keep a check. My CRP/WBC has always been a good marker for me. It is for my peace of mind. I have full test for Calcium, Vit D, glucose, liver function etc every 6 months.

[JUDEAPUDE]

Hi. I have just reduced to 2 mg from 2.5 mg. My GP has given me blood test forms in advance. She leaves it up to me. When I feel like I would like to reduce I have a blood test. If it comes back normal I reduce. If the symptoms return, I have another to see if the levels are rising. I am one of the lucky ones where the blood tests help.