Biopsy now needed

[Deniseelk]

Further to my previous post, I saw a wrist surgeon this afternoon. He has been asked to carry out a biopsy on my wrist ( destruction due to Rheumatoid Arthritis ). The consultants reviewed my wrist MRI and feel the destruction ( and speed of it) is more than Rheumatoid Arthritis and feel it is an infection.

I have already been tested positive for Ultraferon Gold and T Spot so we know I have the TB infection.

I now feel even more concerned about the prospect of bone TB. I keep being told how rare it is and they have no real experience in it!

Apprehensive of the next stage ! Wonder if anybody else been in the same position?

Denise Elkington

[HelenC Partner TB Alert]

Hi Denise,

What a scary time for you. I am glad, at least, that the doctors have been quick to suspect TB. Hopefully, you will get a quick diagnosis whatever the cause may be.

If it is bone TB then it is important to remember that it is treatable, like any form of TB. The sooner that TB is treated the better as it limits the damage it can do to your body. People often begin to feel better after just two weeks treatment, though the treatment would take at least six months.

I appreciate it is daunting to potentially have a rare illness, but remember your specialists will speak to other specialists that do have experience of it. Though bone TB is rare I do myself know of cases. In fact, if you receive a diagnosis I may be able to put you in touch with someone who was treated for the condition.

Wishing you all the best during this difficult time,

Helen