When bloods done for GCA should the ESR level and the Serum C reactive protein marker be tested.. The nurse seems to have stopped requesting the latter.
Blood tests GCA: When bloods done for GCA should... - PMRGCAuk
Blood tests GCA
Early days I had both done, but as time went by, ESR the only one...think it may depend on GP and/or lab it goes to...and finance probably - two test, two fees!
You could ask the question...🤔
April, May and June both done. Both back to normal levels but could have been prednisolone. July and August just ESR. Will ask the question. Thank you.
Should be back to "normal levels"- and yes that's due to the Pred.
You will probably be told it's not necessary to do both...and that's a fair point.. both are recommended for diagnosis... but after than monitoring one is okay... and as you go along once every few months is fine. Unless of course you have symptoms..
If that one begins to look out of kilter, then both may be done.... but there do seem to be a lot on here who struggle to get them done regularly.
If you haven't read this post -might be of interest - there are related posts as well -
Depends on the doctor/lab. Really it should be both - but there are disputes about which is more relevant. Whatever - every patient is different and they really should look and see which is most relevant for you.
If it rises again - it is a sign that you aren't really on enough pred. That's the reason for checking them
Mine being done every 2 weeks at present. Guess I'm fortunate. Nowhere near normal last time. Good to hear yours are down. Hope to be there soon.
MIne were never up though!!!!!
that's why it is helpful to keep a record of your own readings to help see any pattern etc.