Ankylosing Spondylitis or Spinal Degeneration: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Ankylosing spondylitis or spinal degeneration? Hello Doctor: I am the one who previously asked about my case in <a href="https://adoctor.tw/article/200623">#200623</a>. My blood test and MRI reports have come back. The blood test report (as mentioned by the ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your questions. Here are my responses: 1. I previously had an X-ray in the immunology department that showed a slight inflammation in the right sacroiliac joint (there was a bit of whiteness, but it was not obvious). However, the MRI report from the rehabili...[Read More] Ankylosing Spondylitis or Spinal Degeneration: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Understanding Immune System Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Immune system issues Hello, Doctor Gao. I have a few questions to ask you, and I appreciate your help. 1. At the beginning of August, I developed a urinary tract infection and took antibiotics for two weeks. The symptoms disappeared, and I thought I was cured, so I didn't ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe there is a high possibility of reactive arthritis, especially considering your age and the occurrence of acute prostatitis along with unexplained joint effusion and swelling. I recommend that you consult a rheumatologist nearby. The Al...[Read More] Understanding Immune System Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosis of Ankylosing Spondylitis Hello, doctor. I am 42 years old and have been experiencing occasional dull pain in my sacroiliac joint for the past six months. I have seen both orthopedic and rehabilitation specialists without any improvement. One day, I woke up at 4 AM due ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Am I certain that I have ankylosing spondylitis? --> Currently, the diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis requires not only blood tests but also clinical symptoms. The absence of nighttime back pain is somewhat unusu...[Read More] Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Understanding Suspected Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Next Steps
Suspected ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Doctor, I am 28 years old. Initially, six months ago, after a full-body adjustment, I started experiencing stiffness and pain in my back upon waking up, particularly in the upper back (with no issues in the lower back). After stretching in...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Do I have ankylosing spondylitis? --> It would be helpful to check for HLA-B27. Your symptoms have persisted for a while, and chronic lower back pain in young individuals warrants caution regarding ankylosing spondy...[Read More] Understanding Suspected Ankylosing Spondylitis: Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding RA Diagnosis: Interpreting Joint Ultrasound Results
Is it confirmed? I started seeing a rheumatologist at the end of last year (2022) due to morning stiffness in my fingers. My rheumatoid factor test results have been inconsistent, showing both positive and negative results. The only relatively consistent finding is from the ultra...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Currently, the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) still requires a comprehensive evaluation based on multiple test results, as relying on a single data point has lower accuracy. However, given the number of inflamed and painful joints you ha...[Read More] Understanding RA Diagnosis: Interpreting Joint Ultrasound Results
Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
Inquiry about Rheumatoid Arthritis Hello, Doctor. Over the past two to three years, I have frequently experienced skin allergies (rashes). When I am back in my hometown (Miaoli), my condition improves significantly during my vacation, but it immediately relapses when I return to ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. For someone like me who experiences long-term allergies that recur, could it be due to environmental factors, stress, or irregular lifestyle? What should I pay attention to or how can I improve? --> All three fact...[Read More] Understanding Allergies and Joint Pain: Insights on Rheumatoid Arthritis
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 Rheumatoid Arthritis: Early Diagnosis and Concerns at 20
Rheumatoid arthritis Hello, doctor. I would like to ask: 1. In your clinical experience, are there many cases of rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed around the age of 20? 2. Does having rheumatoid arthritis always lead to joint deformities? 3. Is rheumatoid arthritis still considered ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. In your clinical experience, are there many cases diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis around the age of 20? --> Relatively few; it is more common in middle-aged women. 2. Will joints definitely deform after deve...[Read More] Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis: Early Diagnosis and Concerns at 20
Exploring Alternative Diagnoses Beyond SLE: A Patient's Journey
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) Four months ago, the patient developed a rash on the skin and underwent numerous immunological tests. The results showed C1q 24.2, C1c 24.2, C3 73, PL-12 (++), WBC 3600, platelet count 129,000, and urine tests were negative. ANA, dsDNA, pANCA, a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The examination data you provided is insufficient, so I cannot offer any recommendations based on these results. However, I believe that a negative ANA (antinuclear antibody) test reduces the likelihood of systemic lupus erythematosus and increa...[Read More] Exploring Alternative Diagnoses Beyond SLE: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Finger Pain: Is It Related to Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing Spondylitis Fingers Hello Doctor, a few days ago, I suddenly started experiencing pain in the interphalangeal joint of my left thumb. It hurts more when I press or apply force (I noticed the pain when the thumb is in a disadvantaged position). I would like to ask what ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Ankylosing spondylitis can also cause inflammation in peripheral joints, but this is less common. The primary manifestation is usually tendinitis or synovitis, leading to swelling and pain in the entire finger or toe. Since your symptoms have be...[Read More] Understanding Finger Pain: Is It Related to Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding Immune System Abnormalities: Symptoms and Risks of Sjögren's Syndrome
Abnormalities in the immune system? In the past three years, I have experienced intermittent urticaria on my face. After consulting with a rheumatologist, it was determined that it was caused by an allergy, and I have also been experiencing joint pain (without swelling), low-grad...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe the likelihood of Sjögren's syndrome is high. Although the tear secretion is not at the standard level, it is close to the abnormal threshold. Additionally, with a positive SSA, elevated IgG levels, and joint symptoms, if the sali...[Read More] Understanding Immune System Abnormalities: Symptoms and Risks of Sjögren's Syndrome
Understanding Morning Stiffness in Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Parent-Child Perspective
Is this morning stiffness (and pain) a symptom of ankylosing spondylitis? Hello Dr. Gao, both my son and I have been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis by rheumatologists, but I find it quite peculiar that our experiences of morning stiffness are completely different. When I w...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The significance of morning stiffness lies in the joint stiffness and pain that occurs after rest, particularly following sleep, but improves with activity. Therefore, the presentation of stiffness and pain can vary, potentially affecting the r...[Read More] Understanding Morning Stiffness in Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Parent-Child Perspective
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?
Understanding HIV Symptoms: What to Know After Exposure
HIV/AIDS issues Hello Doctor: I kissed my boyfriend, including French kissing. On the first to third day, I felt fine, but by the fourth day, my throat started to feel uncomfortable. I experienced pain on both sides of my throat when swallowing saliva. I also felt weak, had some ...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: These upper respiratory symptoms require testing to determine if a diagnosis can be confirmed, and whether there is an HIV infection, which can only be confirmed through a visit to a hospital. Thank you for your message![Read More] Understanding HIV Symptoms: What to Know After Exposure
Understanding Early Symptoms of Lupus: Normal Tests but Facial Rash?
The tests for lupus erythematosus are normal, but there are erythematous lesions around the face and eyes. Is this also an early stage of the disease? I have been tested at two hospitals, and the results were normal. However, I have red spots on my face and around my eyes, which ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I recommend that you consult a rheumatologist at a large hospital. The presence of erythema around the eyes, along with sensitivity to sunlight and difficulty opening bottle caps, may suggest dermatomyositis. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumat...[Read More] Understanding Early Symptoms of Lupus: Normal Tests but Facial Rash?
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Blood Glucose Meters
Risk of HIV Infection Hello, doctor. I recently visited a clinic and used a blood glucose meter to check my blood sugar. However, I'm feeling a bit anxious about whether the clinic properly replaced the lancet. If a patient with HIV had used it shortly before me, is there a ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello, the clinic regulations state that blood glucose lancets are also considered medical waste and must be used only once. The HIV virus is difficult to survive outside the human body, and the risk of infection is very low. For joint pain and chills, it is recommended to seek c...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Blood Glucose Meters
Understanding Antibody Results in Dermatomyositis: Implications for Disease Progression
Antibody Issues in Dermatomyositis I was diagnosed with dermatomyositis on November 20, 2023, with a positive result for PL-7 (++) and negative results for all others. At that time, I only experienced muscle weakness, mechanic's hands, and joint rashes, with no other symptom...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The blood test results you received are qualitative tests, which do not provide actual numerical values, so they are not very precise and do not necessarily indicate changes in disease status or worsening of your condition. I suggest not to worr...[Read More] Understanding Antibody Results in Dermatomyositis: Implications for Disease Progression
Distinguishing Between Immune Issues and Menopause Symptoms at 50
How to distinguish between immune issues and menopausal symptoms? Hello, Doctor. I am 50 years and 6 months old. My menstrual cycle was regular until December of last year when it suddenly stopped. Before March of this year, I experienced insomnia, excessive sweating, frequent co...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: (1) What tests should be done to confirm if there is inflammation or adhesion in the spine? --> X-rays and blood tests are sufficient. If necessary, an MRI may also be arranged. Your physician may have started treatm...[Read More] Distinguishing Between Immune Issues and Menopause Symptoms at 50
Understanding the Effectiveness and Frequency of Immune System Tests
Immune system examination? Hello Doctor: I had an immune system blood test related to rheumatoid conditions last November, and all the values were normal at that time. I would like to ask how long the effectiveness of the immune system test lasts and how often I should have it do...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. If your tests are all normal and you do not have any symptoms related to the immune system or rheumatic diseases, I believe routine follow-up may not be necessary. However, if you experience rheumatic symptoms such as joint pain, skin rashes, un...[Read More] Understanding the Effectiveness and Frequency of Immune System Tests
Could My Symptoms Indicate Rheumatoid Arthritis? A Follow-Up Inquiry
Please provide the content you would like me to translate? Hello Doctor: I have a few more questions. The pain I've been experiencing has decreased over the past few days, and my joints have never been swollen; the sharp pain lasts only a few seconds and disappears with slig...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I don't believe it is rheumatoid arthritis. The Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology Department of Changhua Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, is concerned about you.[Read More] Could My Symptoms Indicate Rheumatoid Arthritis? A Follow-Up Inquiry