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Can 6 weeks on Plaquenil affect lip biopsy results for Sjogrens

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shaq26875
shaq26875

The rheumy diagnosed Sjogrens as I had a very dry mouth , swollen knuckles and wrists and put me on Plaquenil and predisolone while I waited for a lip biopsy on saliva glands and awaited blood test results for rheumatoid arthritis . The RA came back as negative and the lip biopsy has been delayed . I have been on the steroids and Plaq for last 6 weeks....I have been told to taper off the steroids from 7.5 mg to 0 over 2 months period but to continue taking Plaq. ..however after 2 weeks of tapering my chest pains returned as I ran out of my PPI med ( originally diagnosed as having GERD and Barrett's Essophagus 4 months ago...but last month was told Barrett's now negligible and could stop the PPI as soon as stopped steroids and Plaq.) Today I stopped my steroid and Plaq as can't go through intense chest pains with no relief...if symptoms return I will resume Plaq and go to gastro and get more PPI.

My question is should I bother at this stage to get a lip biopsy as I have been on steroids and Plaq for last 6 weeks.....or wait and if symptoms return then do it?

0 likes, 6 replies

6 Replies

  • sally83545
    sally83545 shaq26875

    Posted

    Hi Shaq!

    It sounds like you are getting closer to a diagnosis. I think you should absolutely go forward with your biopsy. The Plaquenil helps manage the disease it doesn't get rid of it. Plaquenil  takes a long time to build up in your body. (I'm talking months) Knowing what I know now I suggest to you to try to relax and stay the course. Refill the meds you need for your chest pain, follow the Doctors advice on tapering off the steroid and get the biopsy done as soon as you can get in (the results will be another piece of the puzzle). You can ask your doctor if he thinks the meds will effect the results of your biopsy and does it make a difference if you have the biopsy during a flare or if you are non-symtomatic.   I know it is hard waiting for results when you are feeling bad but you are almost there and soon you will have an answer to what specifically is making you sick. Hang in there and feel better,

    Sally

    • Sunsetstuff
      Sunsetstuff sally83545

      Posted

      Sorry, Sally! That was for Shaq! Ps...I always like your kind , knowledgeable answers to everyone! - Mo
  • Sunsetstuff
    Sunsetstuff shaq26875

    Posted

    Hi. No, the Plaquenil and Prednisone won't change the outcome of the biopsy.
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