Understanding Abnormal ANA and Complement Levels: Causes and Next Steps
Antinuclear antibodies and abnormalities in complement levels C3 and C4? Hello Doctor, my wife has had abnormal antinuclear antibody (ANA) levels in her blood tests over the past few years (both AC-1 and AC-4 are affected), with titers fluctuating between a maximum of 1:320 and a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The presence of abnormal ANA along with decreased C3 and C4 levels suggests a higher likelihood of an autoimmune disease. C3 and C4 are produced by the liver, and generally, they increase in response to stress or infection. However, in cases of...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal ANA and Complement Levels: Causes and Next Steps
Can You Get the Flu Vaccine with an Autoimmune Disease?
Influenza vaccine Hello doctor, I had blood tests this week in the rheumatology and immunology department to check for issues related to my immune system, but the results are not out yet. My symptoms are suggestive of reactive arthritis. I would like to ask if it turns out to be ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe it is advisable. Individuals with immune system disorders should also receive the influenza vaccine, and the likelihood of experiencing side effects is not higher. This is a message from the Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Depar...[Read More] Can You Get the Flu Vaccine with an Autoimmune Disease?
Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What Does a Positive ANA Test Mean?
Autoimmune diseases Hello, Director Gao. I would like to ask you a question. Previously, I experienced full-body itching and developed hives whenever I returned home. After seeing a doctor, I took antihistamines for over a month, and now I no longer itch, but I still occasionally...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. An ANA titer of 1:80 is considered low, and if there are no symptoms, we usually recommend monitoring. 2. In cases of chronic urticaria, we sometimes test for syphilis, as untreated syphilis infection can lead to prolo...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What Does a Positive ANA Test Mean?
Understanding Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Blood Tests and Symptoms Explained
Rheumatoid-related inquiries? Hello, Dr. Gao. I previously asked you about rheumatoid-related issues (pain in both wrists) on September 11. The blood test results are out, and I also had an X-ray of my hands. The rheumatologist said there were no issues. I would like to ask you a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: Question 1: In the case of early rheumatoid arthritis, is it possible for blood test results to be normal and X-rays to show no signs? --> Yes, that can happen. Question 2: What does the quantitative result in the b...[Read More] Understanding Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: Blood Tests and Symptoms Explained
Understanding the Link Between Anxiety and Rheumatoid Arthritis Risk
The likelihood of anxiety-induced rheumatoid arthritis? Hello Doctor, I previously asked you questions related to rheumatoid issues. I have health anxiety and had blood tests for rheumatoid-related checks last November. At that time, the doctor said the results were normal and ad...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. First of all, I'm not sure where you saw that "people who are under long-term stress have a 176 times higher chance of developing rheumatoid arthritis compared to normal individuals." In my knowledge and the relevant literature, ...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Anxiety and Rheumatoid Arthritis Risk
Understanding Sacroiliac Joint Issues: Is It Always an Autoimmune Disease?
Ankylosing spondylitis 1. The patient recently underwent an X-ray examination due to lower back pain, which revealed structural damage to the sacroiliac joint. The doctor suspects ankylosing spondylitis, but blood tests returned negative for the associated gene, with inflammatory...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
1. Issues with the sacroiliac joint are not solely caused by autoimmune diseases; differential diagnosis is necessary. 2. Generally, back pain associated with ankylosing spondylitis responds well to treatment; if the response is poor, other causes of back pain should be consider...[Read More] Understanding Sacroiliac Joint Issues: Is It Always an Autoimmune Disease?
Do Allergies Affect Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Can allergies affect the symptoms of stiffness? Hello Dr. Tseng, my son is 20 years old and has both ankylosing spondylitis and allergy issues. He is currently taking two tablets of Celebrex daily for ankylosing spondylitis, but he still experiences morning stiffness for about an...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
If a person has severe allergies that lead to irregular daily routines, it may affect the stability of autoimmune diseases. Mild symptoms typically do not have such an impact. Based on your description (morning stiffness lasting about 1 hour and an ESR frequently elevated to 40-5...[Read More] Do Allergies Affect Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding Low C3 Levels During Early Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Low C3 complement levels? Due to being in the early stages of pregnancy (5 weeks), my doctor had me undergo multiple blood tests, and I just saw the results in my health record. My C3 level is only 87 mg/dL (the normal range is above 90). I already have Sjögren's syndrome, b...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. There are many reasons for a decrease in complement C3 levels. If it was previously normal and has now decreased, it may be related to immune system activation. If you have Sjögren's syndrome, it is indeed possible to have lower complement...[Read More] Understanding Low C3 Levels During Early Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Causes and When to Seek Help
Lymphadenopathy Infection Issues Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you some questions: About six months ago, I noticed swelling in the lymph nodes on both sides of my groin. Almost every node in that area has enlarged, with a few becoming elongated, measuring approximately 1 to 2...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, multiple enlarged lymph nodes usually indicate that there is some condition in the body, ranging from systemic infections, rheumatologic and autoimmune diseases, to hematologic malignancies. Therefore, it is recommended to visit an infectious disease clinic as soon as poss...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Elevated Gamma-Globulin Levels: Potential Causes and Implications
Elevated γ-globulin levels? Hello, doctor. Previously, I was concerned about the possibility of having multiple myeloma. Later, I received some blood test results: FLC Lambda 11.89 (5.71-26.3) / FLC Kappa 14.45 (3.3-19.4) / FLC K/L 1.22 (0.25-1.65). The Kappa level of 14.45 (3.3-...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. It appears that your γ-globulin levels are elevated. Does this mean I have multiple myeloma? --> No. Infections or autoimmune diseases can also cause a slight increase. The manifestations of multiple myeloma are d...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Gamma-Globulin Levels: Potential Causes and Implications
Understanding Positive ANA Test Results: What You Need to Know
Positive ANA test result? Hello, the results of your immunological tests show a positive ANA (antinuclear antibody) with a titer of 1:40 and a pattern described as dense fine speckled. This indicates the presence of antinuclear antibodies, which can be associated with autoimmune ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. This is considered normal, and you can follow up in six months or more. If any new rheumatic symptoms arise during this period, please return for an earlier consultation. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital,...[Read More] Understanding Positive ANA Test Results: What You Need to Know
Understanding Positive IgM in Coagulation Protein Tests: What It Means for Your Health
Cryoglobulin test The presence of cold agglutinins, indicated by a positive IgM (1+), suggests that your body may be producing antibodies that can cause red blood cells to clump together at lower temperatures. This condition can be associated with various underlying issues, inclu...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. It is recommended to return to the rheumatology clinic for follow-up, as further examinations may be necessary. The presence of cryoglobulinemia is related to many factors, with hepatitis C being the most common. Even if hepatitis C tests are no...[Read More] Understanding Positive IgM in Coagulation Protein Tests: What It Means for Your Health
Understanding Immune Dysregulation: Chronic Urticaria and Its Challenges
Immune dysfunction Hello, Doctor. I have been suffering from chronic urticaria for about four years, and it has not been cured. A previous doctor mentioned that this is a reaction of immune hyperactivity. However, since my diagnosis nearly a year ago, I have been experiencing rec...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is this situation due to immune hyperactivity or deficiency? Can both coexist? --> It may be better understood as "immune system dysregulation." Autoimmune diseases and allergic conditions are both result...[Read More] Understanding Immune Dysregulation: Chronic Urticaria and Its Challenges
Understanding Joint Pain and Itching: Possible Causes and Solutions
Generalized joint pain and bone itching? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing joint pain and itching for about ten years. The itching sensation in my bones makes me feel restless, constantly wanting to move or twist them. The joint pain can come on suddenly and last for quite a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here is my response: Question: I would like to ask if this situation is similar to rheumatoid arthritis? Is it possible for my values to decrease? Is the frequent pain in my joints and itching in my bones due to an issue with my immune system...[Read More] Understanding Joint Pain and Itching: Possible Causes and Solutions
Understanding Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Symptoms, Tests, and Treatment Options
Autoimmune Thyroiditis Hello, Doctor. I have been tracking thyroid issues for many years. In November of last year, my tests showed TSH 4.43, Free T4 0.84, and anti-TPO 9295, along with asymmetrical eyes, with the right eye protruding. I have been experiencing chronic dryness in ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
It is recommended that you visit a medical center to see an endocrinologist and check for TSH receptor antibodies, as this antibody is related to exophthalmos. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Thyroiditis: Symptoms, Tests, and Treatment Options
Understanding Dry Mouth: Salivary Gland Function and Reactive Arthritis
Sjögren's syndrome and sialography? Hello Doctor, (I forgot to attach the data and there were some missing words, so I am asking again.) My immunologist diagnosed me with possible reactive arthritis. Recently, after hearing that I have dry eye syndrome, the doctor arranged f...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. My doctor told me that my salivary gland function is impaired, likely due to arthritis-related xerostomia, which is different from typical dry mouth. Can reactive arthritis also lead to symptoms of dry mouth? Is it po...[Read More] Understanding Dry Mouth: Salivary Gland Function and Reactive Arthritis
Understanding Fluctuations in Hs-CRP Levels for Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients
Does eating salad cause fluctuations in hs-CRP levels? Hello Doctor, I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and my main symptom is pain in the buttocks. Since March 2nd of last year, I have been taking two Salazopyrin daily and only taking Voltaren when I experience pain (th...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
1) The activity of ankylosing spondylitis naturally fluctuates and is not ineffective. 2) It is possible that medication was not taken, or the disease itself may be changing. 3) There are reports indicating that COVID-19 infection can lead to increased instability in autoimmune d...[Read More] Understanding Fluctuations in Hs-CRP Levels for Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients
Impact of COVID-19 on Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Clinical Perspective
The relationship between COVID-19 infection and the progression of ankylosing spondylitis? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask: 1) Are there any relevant studies that confirm that a diagnosis of COVID-19 can worsen the condition of patients with ankylosing spondylitis who previous...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
There have indeed been reports that COVID-19 infection can lead to instability in autoimmune diseases. However, in most patients, this worsening condition tends to gradually resolve over time. There is no need to worry; you can seek medical advice and assistance from a physician....[Read More] Impact of COVID-19 on Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Clinical Perspective
Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
Autoimmune diseases Hello Doctor: I recently underwent blood tests for my immune system, and the results are as follows: IgE: 1075, C3: 111.6, C4: 30.9, Anti-dsDNA Ab: Interpretation: Negative, Anti-dsDNA Ab: Reactivity: 0.94, EJ: Negative, Jo-1: Negative, Ku: Negative, MDA5: Neg...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Your dsDNA and SRP results are both positive, and it is important to discuss these findings with your physician to confirm the diagnosis. The diagnosis of autoimmune diseases requires not only blood test results but also consideration of clinica...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: Interpreting Your Blood Test Results
Understanding Positive ANA and Normal Complement Levels in SLE Concerns
ANA positive homogeneous 1:160+ with normal C3 and C4 complement levels? Hello Doctor: Recently, I developed hives and visited the rheumatology and immunology department. After blood tests, it was found that my ANA was positive with a homogeneous pattern at 1:160. Other tests for...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. A positive ANA (antinuclear antibody) test can occur in healthy individuals as well. To confirm this possibility, we will investigate the reasons for a positive ANA, including the series of tests you mentioned. If these tests return negative res...[Read More] Understanding Positive ANA and Normal Complement Levels in SLE Concerns