HUVS

[Superhonig1]

Hi, I'm 39 and was diagnosed with RA in my 20's. After being terribly painful for about 2 years it went into almost full remission after a year of Sulphasalazine and NSAID's. Aside from the ends of both of my pregnancies I have had very little problems...until this year.

In March I underwent a termination which was unsuccessful as tissue was left inside me for some time so had to have a surgical procedure to remove everything fully. I also then had a copper coil fitted.

About 3 weeks later I started to break out in hives (this had happened mildly before surgery but went away with a few antihistamines). I had also used a self tanning cream so put it down to this.

Anyway these hives were relentless and did not respond to antihistamines. I ended up in A&E and even intravenous steroids and antihistamines did not completely get rid, within a week they were back.

I have now had them for 4 months, I was also diagnosed with Mondors disease (blocked vein in breast) and persistent episcleritis in both eyes. Yesterday I finally saw a gp who listened and he did a urine test and found blood. He sent me straight to A&E where I have had full bloods (not had all results but ESR and CRP raised and my Immunoglobulin A). Chest X-ray clear.

Sat here terrified waiting for the Dr. I think they all suspect HUVS or UV or Lupus but I'm still terrified.

[Hidden]

Hi,

HUV and HUVS are both rare and can be a chalk ending diagnosis to make. Have they biopsied your skin lesions and checked your anti c1q and complements etc?

The best chance of getting a diagnosis and effective treatment is to see a Consultant with good Vasculitis experience. VUK have a helpline, I suggest you contact us and we can advise you of your closest specialist.

vasculitis.org.uk/helpline

[Superhonig1 in reply to Hidden]

So you mean it might not be? I think I'm more scared that it's so something worse! No, there's no dermatologist in this hospital so no skin biopsy yet.

I should get the results of the complements tests this morning.

They have me on regular steroids and antihistamines and hives and eyes virtually gone/normal today. I had a copper coil removed yesterday so there is a small possibility that was causing my problems but we'll see.

It's very frightening when you don't know what's happening and why.

Thank you for the link to the helpline, I'll call it now.