Raquel, I agree with Nicholle and Marianne, too, although in 2019, the diagnostic criteria became updated from the previous "4 out of 11" rule. It's still based on a constellation of lab and clinical findings but is a little more complicated. The anti-dsDNA and anti-Smith antibodies are the two most specific autoantibodies for lupus, as they don't occur with other conditions, unlike ANA which is nonspecific. So the fact that you had those makes it highly likely lupus. Hope that helps, and good luck!

From what i know, doctors usually want at least 4 of the 11 symptoms present for a lupus diagnosis. With that being said, i would suggest to continue to read up on lupus and advocate for yourself because doctors don’t always listen. The labs don’t necessarily need to be there since they can fluctuate depending on lupus activity. Hope this helps some.

Hi Raquel
Just thought I would say I totally agree with Nicolle if that helps. Also sounds to me by what you described that lupus definitely could be a component. Good luck with Rheumo.💜

Thank you so much for the help! I do have pictures on my phone to show the rheumatologist of my malar rash and I also suffer from chronic migraines and swollen lymph nodes. Let's see what the rheumy says.

Wow. CongrTs.