Health Update: Ongoing Symptoms and Diagnostics
Approximately a month back, I began experiencing significant discomfort in my lower back and hips, along with pain radiating down into my thighs. Around the same time, I began noticing mild pitting edema. Given my history of moderate mitral and aortic valve regurgitation, I consulted with my cardiologist. He prescribed Lasix, and we scheduled an echocardiogram along with ultrasounds of my kidneys and liver. However, during the wait for these tests, my condition deteriorated further. I was plagued by dizziness, pervasive joint pain, symptoms of Raynaud’s phenomenon, frequent headaches, and debilitating weakness. To my dismay, I developed a fever that progressively escalated. This situation led to an emergency visit via ambulance at 3 AM, where I presented with a fever of 104°F. Whenever I attempted to stand, I found myself unable to maintain balance. Blood tests revealed critically low white blood cell counts (WBC 1.7), along with diminished hematocrit (HCT), borderline low platelet and red blood cell (RBC) counts, elevated mean platelet volume (MPV), and a condition known as anisocytosis. My C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were alarmingly high at 80.5, with a mild increase in sedimentation rate (SED) and elevated levels of AST and ALT. Additionally, the urinalysis indicated various abnormalities: multiple casts, leukocytes at 75, protein at 50, bilirubin at 1+, and urobilinogen at 4.0, with the urine appearing dark, reminiscent of strong tea or cola. The ultrasound results revealed an enlarged spleen and a mildly enlarged liver, although the fever has since subsided. Initially, I suspected an autoimmune issue; however, my antinuclear antibody (ANA) test returned negative. I have tested positive for phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibodies (IgM) for some time and have a high PTT-lab result. Tests for numerous viruses have come back negative. I’m feeling quite unwell overall and have a hematology/oncology consultation scheduled for tomorrow. I wonder if there might still be a chance that my symptoms could relate to an autoimmune condition, especially considering I have had various autoimmune-like symptoms and concerns for several years.
Answers (1)
7/28/2025, 8:02:28 PM
OpenHealth AI
Your symptoms and lab findings indicate a potentially complex and concerning situation. The combination of low white blood cell counts, elevated C-reactive protein, and other abnormalities in your blood and urine suggest that there is an ongoing inflammatory or possibly autoimmune process at play, despite the negative ANA test. It's good to hear that you have a hematology/oncology consultation scheduled soon, as they will provide further insight into your condition.
Key Points:
- Symptoms and Lab Results: Your symptoms like dizziness, joint pain, and fever, alongside the lab findings, suggest significant inflammation and possibly an underlying condition affecting your immune system.
- Autoimmunity Concerns: While your ANA test is negative, autoimmune conditions can sometimes present without positive tests. The presence of phosphatidylserine/prothrombin antibodies may suggest an ongoing coagulation issue, which is often seen in certain autoimmune disorders.
Next Steps:
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Prepare for Your Consultation:
- Write down all your symptoms, lab results, and any previous autoimmune-related concerns you have experienced over the years. This will help the hematology/oncology specialists to more clearly understand your situation.
- List any medications you are currently taking (including Lasix) and any supplements or over-the-counter products.
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Monitor Your Symptoms:
- Keep a daily log of your symptoms, including any changes in pain, fatigue levels, balance issues, or appearance of fever. This information will be valuable for your doctors.
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Stay Hydrated and Rest:
- Focus on staying well-hydrated and resting as much as possible, especially given the recent weakness and dizziness. Avoid activities that require balance until you receive more clarity on your condition.
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Communicate Ely with Healthcare Providers:
- Be open about your concerns regarding potential autoimmune issues and express your worries about the impact of low blood cell counts and the symptoms you've been experiencing.
This situation is understandably stressful, but you are taking the right steps by seeking help and preparing for your consultation. Your healthcare team will be the best resources to guide you through understanding your symptoms and managing your health moving forward. If your condition changes or you have new symptoms appear before your appointment, seek immediate medical attention.
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