Blood results

[Poppy1647]

So I have now been on treatment for 2 weeks at 60mg of Prednisolone and my rheumatologist called to say that Im not responding to treatment as expected. The CRP has gone down but the PV is going up. Has anyone had this during their treatment? If so what was the issue? Im waiting to have the biosy now which my rheumatologist was initially not sure I needed done.

[SnazzyD]

Hello, do you mean Plasma Viscosity?

If you have a biopsy from now do be mindful that there is a high chance of a negative result due to the steroids on top of it always being possible to miss the affected bit if artery. They only have a couple of options for places from which to take the artery sample and the Giant cells might not be exactly there.

It is possible that if you do have GCA you are one of those who need more than 60mg to start with. Sorry, you’re having such a rough time; this initial bit trying to get a grip on it can be gruelling as you are finding.

[Poppy1647 in reply to SnazzyD]

Yes I meam plasma velocity

Thank you

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Normally once on Pred the tests should show the inflammation markers are going down, provided dose is enough. Not sure about PV, sure PMRPro or someone will advise soon.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

And the symptoms? Plus it seems a bit late to be doing a biopsy after 2 weeks at 60mg pred.

I do appreciate the greater accuracy attached to PV - but I was under the impression that it had been advised ESR and CRP were to be retained for monitoring in PMR and GCA, at least for the moment. It is all very well - but PV still isn't widely used and they don't have the background. A study did find that PV may be elevated earlier in the course of the disease - so maybe it will be better. Not sure how widely available PV testing is though.

[Poppy1647 in reply to PMRpro]

I have absolutely no clue but my blood test form was specific in asking for PV

Im not really sure if the biosy is going to be helpful like you say after so long. Im in week 3 and still waiting for the appointment for the biosy.

Im very tired all the time, low energy levels, sleep is still not an issue as would be expected with the Pred. I still have headaches but not as frequent or acute. Tenderness around the face and jaw still present but much better than before.