Can disc bulge and elevated ESR indicate autoimmunity?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have studied your case with diligence. I have seen the reports also. (attachment removed to protect patient identity).

Raised ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) with raised SGPT (serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase) suggest the possibility of polyarthritis. You may need further investigation like RA (rheumatoid) factor, ACCP (anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide), if required PET (positron emission tomography) scan, ANA (antinuclear antibody), HLA-B27 (human leukocyte antigen).

As per your MRI, there is no significant disc bulge or fluid collection. SI (sacroiliac) joint should be ruled out on MRI again. Ankylosing spondylitis typically involves spine and hips with other large joints also. There is reduced chest function in this disease. Stiffness in the spine is increased. Do you have such stiffness in the spine? Clinical examination is also required to diagnose it. You can do a blood test to confirm it.

If all tests are normal you may need proper exercises and lifestyle modifications. You can do all these tests as early as possible to plan for the future.

I hope this helps.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have seen her reports. (attachment removed to protect patient identity).

All tests of arthritis are negative so less possibility of arthritis. As ANA is negative there is less possibility of auto immune disease. Her symptoms may reduce with medication and physiotherapy.

As ESR is still raised she may need clinical examination and if required further investigation. Raised ESR indicate chronic disease and as CRP is normal indicates no acute flair up. So you may need to keep watch on her ESR.

I hope this helps.