Sherron, I agree with others that thoroughness is important, and @A MyLupusTeam Member's suggestions to check your results if possible and consult a university rheumatologist if you're unhappy are great. We MUST be actively involved in our care and learn the significance of our lab findings, and we need doctors who take the time to answer our questions.

Good luck, and keep us posted!

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A MyLupus...

Each doctor has their own method of determining lupus. I have had a couple I had to push to do regular labs. One of my doctors went over the criteria for lupus at every visit to see if I was flaring. My current rheumatologist uses labs and asks me questions as well as listening to me. We have gotten to the point where he knows when I complain something is going on because I don't complain about pain whole lot.

Many people here have resorted to seeking a second opinion. If you do so, look for someone with lupus expertise and knowledge. Teaching hospitals are often good for this. Is there a Mayo Clinic satellite campus near you? That might be a good place to start. 💜

Do you have a patient portal with your doctor's office? On MyChart we can see our results ourselves and they explain what each lab test is for. You can see for yourself what is out of range. It is important for us to know our lab results and not just rely on the doctor. My nephrologist orders labs the week before our visits and goes over everything with me line by line.

You might be able to call your doctor's office and request an email or fax if you don't have a patient portal setup. Most medical facilities have patient portals these days. I hope this helps. It sounds like you could use the peace of mind. 💜

I just got a new rheumatologist because mine retired, and the new one (at the same office as the last) refused to look at positive ANA history, focused on one negative test two years ago, refused to look at biopsy evidence, told me my butterfly rash was just acne, and my joint pain was just orthopedic, she even said my symptoms were all attributable to diabetes, but I don't have diabetes. Clearly, she was just running me off. Keep copies of all records/labs/tests and get your GP to refer you elsewhere. Thoroughness is important.