Undergoing testing
Hey! I am 26 years old and I have multiple family members with RA. I have had a RF of 18-20 and elevated CRP for the past three years but only recently starting having slight joint symptoms. The Rheumatologist today said my X-ray looked good and my MRI showed insignificant swelling on my left knuckles.
I thought I was good to go until later I saw the diagnostic code for M05.79 (Rheumatoid arthritis with rheumatoid factor of multiple sites w/o organ or systems involvement). I am waiting for fresh blood work and have an appt in a month but any thoughts? I was expecting to see my old diagnosis of just "unspecified nonspecific immunological finding" and was surprised to see this ICD code.
Hi lovely. I am sure seeing the diagnostic code was jarring, but if this is an RA diagnosis, as this article on the topic states, "an RA diagnosis is not the end of the world. It’s an opportunity to make things better:" https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/no-1-its-just-a-diagnosis/. RA treatments have advanced dramatically in recent years, making the outlook for a full, active life much better. Early treatment can be a big part of this. You mention an upcoming appointment, so thought this article on questions for the rheumatologist might be helpful: https://rheumatoidarthritis.net/living/questions-for-the-doctor/. The author has had RA for some time, but the questions are certainly pertinent. Please know that this community is here for you for information and support. Please keep us posted on how you are doing. Best, Richard (RheumatoidArthritis.net Team)
