Hi Everyone - I forgot to mention that when I saw my new Rheumatologist a couple of weeks ago, she looked at a circular scar that I had on my upper right cheek. It started out with a little redness about 7 years ago. I had it checked to be sure it wasn't skin cancer - everything fine. Since then, it follows 4 stages. Before I get into this - my Rheumatologist is pretty sure it's related to my Fibromyalgia. I am due for blood tests for it soon. I was stunned that she thought my skin problem could be related to my Fibro. She thinks it may be 'Erytheatosus Discoid Lupus.'
The 4 cycles that my scar goes through is EVERY month. It never stops. It will start out as a clear scar, then it forms a white flaky skin. After this, it starts to bleed then scabs. It's continuous. The scar is getting bigger and the symptoms I have may just be what the Doctor thinks. She says that if it IS Lupus, the scar will keep enlarging and can be quite devastating to those that have it. It would need to be treated, but I don't know yet what is involved in the treatment. This is scary for me
I have always had great skin - never have broken out - even in my teens years. This type of Lupus also causes Hyperpigmentation and I DO have a small section on my nose that shows this. I have concluded that Fibromyalgia is a really vicious and evil disorder to have. (Sigh). There is still so much to learn about this problem and whenever I look up Fibro updates, something new crops up.
I am a little apprehensive about the skin problem now. But, it's good that I am being tested for it, I guess. Everytime I accept a NEW symptom of Fibro, I am laid low with another one. Love and Hugs, Laurie
I'm glad you are getting tested, Laurie. It's great that you have a very thorough and thoughtful rheumy. Sounds like a doctor you can trust to know what she is talking about!
That is a really interesting symptom. http://www.jabfm.org/content/22/2/206.full NOT fun! It sounds like you will need to be extra careful in the sun. Use lots of sunscreen and wear hats. It also sounds like early diagnosis is the key, so hopefully you will be able to control it somewhat.
We are here for you while you go through this new possible diagnosis, Laurie. Take care of YOU and keep us posted.
I'm so glad to hear that your Rheumatologist caught this. DLE is important to treat asap! It seems the majority of us have an autoimmune disorder, and I think a lot of us aren't diagnosed yet. Do you think the Fibro caused Lupus, or did Lupus trigger Fibro?
As L Kitty said, take the necessary precautions, it's really important.
Laurie, it's good that your rheumy is so proactive, especially if she suspects DLE. And something jumped out at me when I read the article that LKitty included. It mentioned that DLE can include hair loss. Didn't you mention hair loss in one of your discussions? I thought you did, so wanted to point it out to you. I hope you don't have it, but if you do, it's good to catch and treat it. And your symptoms do sound like something's up with your skin. So try to stay out of the sun if you can, until your rheumy is sure one way or the other. I know, lousy thought during the summer but then again, a good thought if it helps you to feel better during summer.
It seems that fibro is good friends with autoimmune illnesses. I don't understand the connection but it's there. I really hope you don't have DLE but you sound like you're in good hands if anything's up.
As Renie says, please keep us posted! We care about you!
I had to look this one up! I want answers for you, but I just hope and pray that this is NOT what you have. However I did learn a little about Lupus when I was asked to moderate there when my good friend Terri became very ill. I will tell you that most take the drug Plaquenil and have very good results with it!
I am so glad that you FINALLY have a Doctor that is truly caring for you!
My good thoughts and prayers are with you for a good outcome, with improved health!