Can I be diagnosed with SLE without a positive ANA report?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 26-year-old male. I have been diagnosed with lupus. However, I am questioning the diagnosis. Initial presentation of ITP (platelet count under 10k), minor loss of kidney function. Underwent biopsy and reported to have glomerulonephritiswith prominent mesangial deposits. In addition, three false syphilis positives. Failed hospital treatments (IVIG, Dexamethasone, and Rituxan) and underwent splenectomy. I had a heart attack (Troponin 60), positive thyroperoxidase antibody, multiple years of positive lupus anticoagulant, positive beta-2 glycoprotein (IgG and IgM), and positive anticardiolipin (IgG, IgM, and IgA). I have never been positive about the Rh factor.

My C4 complement is borderline low, and sometimes low C3 as well. Current stage 4 CKD (BUN:40, creatinine-3.04, GFR:18). According to my doctors, the literature indicates SLE. However, given the newest criteria for a diagnosis provided by the NIH, due to the lack of positive ANA, I do not fit the category. Having read on the internet, glomerulonephritis and thyroid disease would produce the same symptoms. Given the above information, hypothetically, what further information would disprove an SLE diagnosis from a physician's perspective? Or is a coexistence of these factors likely?

I quit frequent hookah smoking after a heart attack and no alcohol habit. Sometimes I have a fever, muscle/nerve pain, fatigue, alopecia, nausea, abdominal pain, brain fog, and weight gain. I am currently on Carvedilol, Eliquis, Acetaminophen, Clonidine, Hydralazine, Hydroxychloroquine, Azathioprine, Atorvastatin, and Aspirin. I understand that the information given does not imply treatment. Having read how many autoimmune diseases have overlapping symptoms, I am looking for a professional opinion.

Kindly advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Is your concern that it is SLE or not SLE only? The treatment is more important. It is an autoimmune process that has affected different organ systems. According to me, the concern should be how to halt the progress of the illness, for which knowing if it is purely SLE or not is more of a prognostic implication rather than therapeutic. Thyroid antibodies can be positive in any autoimmune process. Even though there could be an underlying vasculitis and CKD, which could have led to the heart's involvement as well.

According to me, what is more important is to focus on symptoms.

Are you symptomatic?
What is the inflammation score in terms of CRP, ESR, and complement levels, and if high, take immunosuppressants and steroids?

Take care of the kidney status. Check a thyroid function test if it is deranged and then move to a deeper level of healing with a more disciplined approach, integrating meditation, diet, a physical routine, and mindfulness. Fix your gut and mental-emotional state, and rest will gradually fall in place.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

They have diagnosed you with lupus. Lupus is a broad category in which SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus) can be included, but lupus does not mean SLE. Generally, ANA (antinuclear antibodies) has to be positive. Seeing if you are in remission or relapse will help formulate a treatment plan. Thyroid antibodies do not require treatment in themselves. It is the thyroid function status that guides the treatment plan.

CRP is a C-reactive protein. It tells about the inflammation status in the body. Follow a diet that includes more veggies and fruits, practice intermittent fasting 16:8. Do moderate-intensity workouts or walk two miles daily, practice tai chi or qi gong, and mindfulness techniques. You can check out Eckhart Tolle's meditations, as they will be a great help.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.