Latest Update: Blood Tests and a Persistent Rash
**Update:** I had an appointment with my primary care physician today, June 25th. He acknowledged my worries regarding potential diagnoses like lymphoma, lupus, or other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia. Following our discussion, I underwent additional blood tests, including a Complete Blood Count (CBC), a basic metabolic panel, rheumatoid factor testing, ANA, C-Reactive Protein, a liver PSC test, as well as checks for Vitamin B12 and D levels. The doctor plans to consult with some surgeons regarding a biopsy of a lymph node. I expect to receive the blood test results within a few days and hope to hear back about the biopsy within the week. As per his guidance, I'm postponing any visits to dermatology or rheumatology until I have more information from my lab work. I want to clarify that I am aware Reddit isn’t a place for medical diagnosis. I have sought care at urgent care and aim to get a referral to a rheumatologist during my next appointment with my primary care provider, though I'm not due to see him until August, which leaves me anxious and apprehensive. I was given Triamcinolone at urgent care and advised to consult a rheumatologist as soon as possible. I find myself seeking insights from others who may have had experiences similar to mine before being diagnosed with conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. What could be happening with my body? I was informed at urgent care that my symptoms might relate to one of these conditions, but they recommended beginning with a rheumatology evaluation to address my skin issues. **About me:** I’m a 27-year-old female, standing 5'3" and weighing 144lbs. I’m not on any medication and have been a daily smoker of cigarettes and cannabis for around twelve years. Approximately two months ago, I developed a severely itchy rash located solely on the back of my neck. It sometimes burns and emits heat upon touch. I haven't changed any soaps, products, or detergents, and topical treatments like lotions or antihistamines haven’t provided relief. I have no prior history of eczema or significant skin issues besides polymorphic light eruption (PMLE) that emerged in recent years. It's concerning because I've noticed swelling in the lymph nodes at the back of my neck, along with those on the sides and behind my ears. Historically, I’ve experienced hard swelling in the lymph nodes around my neck for about five years, with the neck swelling beginning soon after the rash showed up. The rash itself is intensely itchy, can burn at times, and some areas are now developing open sores that refuse to heal. Interestingly, even the skin over the lymph nodes feels irritated, suggesting an underlying issue. Before allowing my Google searches to convince me I might have lymphoma or another severe condition, I figured I would turn to Reddit for advice and shared experiences. I also wanted to mention that a couple of months before the rash surfaced, I began to notice circular, somewhat itchy patches appearing on my legs and abdomen. One such patch has also formed on my foot. These spots persist and don’t seem to heal fully, offering minor itchiness compared to the neck rash, often becoming bothersome during warm showers when they are aggravated by heat or water. Additionally, I have several similar patches on my legs, three on my stomach, and one on my foot. I noticed a definite lump in my lower left leg on the inside of my shin bone, which feels like a swollen lymph node, measuring about 1cm in diameter. The surface skin is slightly pink, though this lump feels distinctly internal. Are there lymph nodes in that area of the lower leg? I’ve included details regarding recent blood test results from October 2024, showing abnormalities—these results, including a basic metabolic panel and elevated D-dimer, hint at some ongoing health issues. Over the past couple of years, I’ve been battling recurrent swollen lymph nodes, ongoing fatigue, and various other health challenges, leading to an unexplained weight loss of about 100 pounds. I’m increasingly concerned that I might have a slow-growing type of lymphoma. Furthermore, I noticed that my tonsils have one side larger than the other and seem unusual. My appetite has also diminished significantly; I can only consume food once a day during a very short window of hunger. Such a lack of appetite has made it challenging to maintain my health. Physically, I feel drained. Everyday tasks that should be manageable leave me exhausted and out of breath, even a brief walk with my dog forces me to take breaks. This fatigue is unlike typical tiredness; it lingers even after resting. I also experience a recurring polymorphic light eruption that occurs each summer, primarily affecting my arms. Recent tests for HIV, Lyme disease, and autoimmune markers came back negative, while my sedimentation rates and other metabolic panels indicated some issues, including trace protein in my urine. I suspect there might be specific tests I need to ask for at this stage or whether I should go ahead and request a biopsy of a lymph node or my rash. Should I consider an urgent care visit or wait for my PCP appointment in August? The topical corticosteroid I’ve been using offers temporary relief for the itching, but the discomfort returns shortly after. I would appreciate any insights or suggestions on how to proceed from here. Thank you. **Additional Notes:** I recently scratched my leg excessively due to intense itching, leading to bruising, which shows how far this discomfort is affecting my daily life.
Answers (1)
6/26/2025, 3:10:56 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing a significant and distressing array of symptoms, which understandably adds to your anxiety. You are currently undergoing tests that could help clarify your situation, and while the wait can be challenging, there are steps you can take to manage your symptoms and your concerns in the meantime.
Main Points
- Symptom Management: Focus on managing your symptoms, particularly the rash and itching.
- Monitoring Changes: Keep a close eye on any changes in your symptoms, especially related to swelling or new rashes.
- Know When to Seek Urgent Care: Understand when it might be necessary to seek immediate medical attention.
Understanding Your Situation
You have a history of fluctuating symptoms, including a persistent rash, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. The tests you've had can help diagnose conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis but may take time for results. The symptoms you've described, including the severe itchiness, irritation from scratching, and the development of open sores, indicate that this condition is causing you significant discomfort.
Given your concerns about possible serious conditions like lymphoma, it’s important to monitor and document your symptoms closely. You mentioned your neck rash is extremely itchy and burning, and that your energy levels are low. These aspects can indeed be linked to inflammatory or autoimmune conditions.
Specific Next Steps
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Symptom Relief and Skin Care:
- Continue using the triamsinolone cream as directed. If you feel it's not helping much, or if the rash worsens, consider gently cleansing the area with mild soap and avoiding any irritants.
- Moisturize regularly to promote healing, and consider over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream for further itch relief, but use it sparingly.
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Monitoring and Documentation:
- Keep a daily log of your symptoms, noting when they flare up and any new changes, such as changes in rashes or further swelling. This documentation can be helpful for your physicians.
- Pay attention to any new symptoms, especially those that are worsening or affect your breathing, energy, or appetite.
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Assessing Urgency:
- If you experience any of the following, consider visiting urgent care sooner: significant respiratory difficulty, intense swelling, high fever, severe new rashes, or increased discomfort that isn't relieved by over-the-counter options.
- If your lymph nodes dramatically increase in size, especially if combined with systemic symptoms (like fever, night sweats, or drastic weight loss beyond what you've experienced), this could warrant quicker intervention.
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Consider Asking About Further Tests:
- Discuss with your primary care physician or the specialist regarding additional specific tests, such as a biopsy of the lymph node or skin involvement, if warranted. If results from your blood work suggest any abnormalities, your provider might expedite referrals or interventions.
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Emotional Well-Being:
- It’s completely normal to feel anxious about your health. Connecting with support groups or talking to someone about your feelings can provide relief and help you feel less isolated during this period of uncertainty.
Given the complexity of your symptoms and the potential seriousness of what they may indicate, I encourage you to remain proactive about your health while staying patient with the diagnostic process. Please keep in touch with your healthcare providers about any new or worsening symptoms, and remember to take care of your emotional health as you navigate through this challenging time.
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