Seeking Insights on Unusual Lab Findings and Symptoms
Hello, everyone, I’m a 39-year-old woman, standing at 5’3” and weighing 230 pounds, of Hispanic descent. I don’t smoke and I don’t use recreational drugs. Currently, I am classified as pre-diabetic. I find myself increasingly exasperated and am reaching out in hopes that someone here might relate to my situation or offer some valuable insights. For quite some time, I have been grappling with numerous chronic symptoms that seem disconnected, and I feel as though I am making no progress with my healthcare providers. I have undergone extensive lab testing, and I would love to hear if anyone else has encountered a similar mix of findings during their own diagnostic process. While I’m not asking for a diagnosis, I’m looking to gather information and hear your experiences as I await further appointments. Here’s a summary of my relevant lab results: **Blood Work Results:** * **White Blood Cell Count (WBC):** 14.5×10³/µL (Elevated, persisting for over three years) * **Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) Titer:** 1:80 * **Absolute Lymphocyte Count:** 4.9×10³/µL (Elevated) * **Absolute Neutrophil Count:** 8.9×10³/µL (Elevated) * **C-Reactive Protein (CRP):** 35 mg/L (Elevated) * **Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR):** 16 mm/hr (High but within normal range) * **Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP):** 144 IU/L (Elevated) * **Calcium Level:** 10.4 mg/dL (High end of normal) * **Carbon Dioxide Level:** 19 mmol/L (Low) * **Complement Proteins C3 and C4:** Elevated (exact values unavailable) **Biopsy Report:** * **Skin Biopsy:** Indicated dermal perifollicular and periadnexal inflammation (a dermatologist attributes this finding to Rosacea). All of my test results are from the past year; however, I have been experiencing the symptoms for approximately three years now. A rheumatologist has informed me that many of these findings are not specific and has advised me to concentrate on weight loss, but having so many indicators pointing towards inflammation raises alarms for me. I have made significant efforts to pursue a healthy lifestyle, leading to a loss of 30 pounds recently, yet my symptoms remain unchanged. I have sought multiple opinions but have yet to obtain a definitive answer. A hematologist conducted flow cytometry tests and concluded there’s no indication of cancer but noticed an elevation in my T-cell levels (14%). Here’s a list of my ongoing symptoms: * Joint discomfort * Extreme fatigue * Swelling and pain in my hands and knuckles * Elbow pain and swelling * Purplish bruising on my feet * Dryness in my mouth * A red rash on my face that feels warm * Itching in my eyes * Recurring headaches * Cold sensations * Some degree of hair thinning * Occasional mouth sores * Rash on my neck * Tinnitus (ringing in ears) * Sensitivity to sunlight * Experiencing "hot flashes" * Pins and needles sensation under the skin Has anyone else experienced a similar set of lab results and symptoms that eventually led to a diagnosis? What was your journey like, and were there any particular tests that helped clarify your condition? I would greatly appreciate any thoughts, advice, or shared experiences. Thank you in advance for your help!
Answers (1)
8/7/2025, 3:41:53 AM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your experiences and concerns. It sounds like you have been through a challenging journey with your health, and I commend you for seeking support and information. Let's break down your situation.
Main Points
- Combination of Lab Findings: Elevated white blood cell count, inflammation markers, and symptoms suggest potential underlying autoimmune or inflammatory conditions.
- Symptoms: Your persistent symptoms, including joint pain, fatigue, and skin issues, raise the possibility of various inflammatory or autoimmune disorders.
Explanation
Your lab results indicate chronic inflammation, as seen in elevated white blood cell counts, C-reactive protein, and specific antibody changes. These findings, combined with your symptoms (such as joint discomfort, fatigue, and skin issues), could suggest conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders. However, the rheumatologist's comment that many findings are non-specific is important; many autoimmune conditions can present similarly.
Next Steps
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Keep a Daily Symptom Diary: Documenting your symptoms, activities, dietary intake, and any medication or supplement influences will help identify potential triggers and patterns. Include detailed notes on flare-ups and how long they last.
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Focus on Weight Management and Diet: Continue your efforts with weight loss, as you've made progress already. Incorporating an anti-inflammatory diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats) may assist in symptom management and overall health improvement.
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Consult a Specialist Again: Consider seeking a multidisciplinary approach involving a rheumatologist for joint symptoms, a dermatology specialist for skin issues, and possibly an endocrinologist if experiencing thyroid-related symptoms (hair thinning, fatigue). Mention your entire range of symptoms and lab results to guide their evaluations.
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Research Complementary Therapies: Engage in gentle exercises, such as yoga or swimming, which can reduce joint pain and improve your overall well-being. Practices like mindfulness or relaxation techniques may also help with fatigue and managing stress.
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Consider Testing for Specific Conditions: Inquire with your healthcare provider about additional tests that may clarify your autoimmune status, such as specific antibodies for conditions like lupus (anti-dsDNA, anti-Smith).
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Stay Proactive and Seek Support: Connect with support groups or communities focused on chronic illness or autoimmune conditions. Hearing others' experiences might provide additional insight and allow you to share coping strategies.
Your situation is certainly complex and understandably frustrating. Tracking your symptoms and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers about your concerns will be vital as you move forward. You are not alone in this; many have navigated similar journeys.
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