Is it possible to have lupus without a specific diagnosis even with positive tests and multiple symptoms?
Yes, it's absolutely possible to have lupus symptoms and positive test results without receiving a formal diagnosis yet. Diagnosing lupus can be challenging because there's no single test that confirms it, and symptoms Show Full Answer
Is it possible to have lupus without a specific diagnosis even with positive tests and multiple symptoms?
Yes, it's absolutely possible to have lupus symptoms and positive test results without receiving a formal diagnosis yet. Diagnosing lupus can be challenging because there's no single test that confirms it, and symptoms vary widely from person to person.
The symptoms you're experiencing align with common lupus manifestations:
* Debilitating fatigue (one of the most common lupus symptoms)
* Memory issues (cognitive dysfunction or "brain fog")
* Low red blood cells (anemia, which lupus can cause)
* Abnormal proteins (often found in urine tests with kidney involvement)
* Chronic kidney disease (lupus nephritis affects 50% of adults with lupus)
* Raynaud's phenomenon
* Easy bruising (related to blood cell abnormalities)
Your doctor must rule out other conditions that can produce similar symptoms before confirming lupus. This process, called differential diagnosis, can take time and may involve multiple tests including blood work, urine tests, and possibly biopsies. Some people live with what's called "undifferentiated connective tissue disease" or "emerging lupus" when they have some lupus symptoms and positive tests but don't meet all the criteria for a formal diagnosis. A MyLupusTeam member shared: "I have had issues and felt sick for so many years and was not diagnosed until I was 63."
Keep detailed notes about your symptoms and continue working closely with your rheumatologist. Even without a formal lupus diagnosis, you should receive treatment to improve your quality of life and manage your symptoms. Don't hesitate to discuss what needs to happen for a lupus diagnosis and advocate for appropriate care.
February 19
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Email
Join
Your Privacy Choices
