Blood Test Results - Can anyone put my mind at rest?

[CajaDeLaMemoria]

So I had blood tests a few days ago.

Some results are back, because they were rushed through. No idea why. Doctors didn't particularly want to talk to me about them - the normal doctor said she didn't understand them, and they wouldn't give me an emergency appointment before I'm due to see rheumatology, which seemed suspicious.

Managed to get a doctor to talk to me about them today, and he casually mentioned that my white blood cells are high, as are my rheumatology levels.

He then noticed a note saying that they shouldn't be mentioned to me until after my appointment, got awkward and said I need to talk to my rheumatologist who is better placed to say if these results mean anything.

Which has worried me a bit. So, any ideas?

That might not be much to go on.

I'm seeing a rheumatologist for wide-spread pain, immobility, stiffness and swelling.

I had rheumatoid arthritis tests four years ago but was told that the bloods didn't match. This was a 'just-in-case' test as the rheumatologist thinks its a spinal or muscle disorder.

Did he say what particular levels or just the words "rheumatology levels"?

Oh by the way, ask for a print out. I always do!

Probably a type of auto antibody titre looking for auto immune disease ....these can often be weakly positive in the general population so need to be interpreted with care. Whether its taken as a positive depends how strongly positive , usually expressed as a ratio like 1/60 etc which would be less significant that 1 / 200 for example

I will go back and demand a print-out - he was rather upset that he'd told me when he shouldn't have, but he did call the hospital and I now have rheumatology on Monday, which is quite fast.

I noted down what I could see on his screen on my phone - it just says Rheumatoid levels - inflammatory markers HIGH (with high in red letters).

They were originally ordered by the rheumatologist, so maybe she'll have the exact figures?

I'm desperate to not be fobbed off again, I'm in so much pain. I'm 22 and I feel like I'm 122. Right now, for instance, my knees are so stiff and sore that I can't move.

Thanks for all the advice so far, it's much appreciated.

Inflammatory markers are CRP and white cell count WCC .
Can be high in infection or inflammation

It all sounds very non-specific to be honest - white cells could be high for any number of reasons - usually due to infection or inflammation somewhere in the body. 'Rheumatology levels' isn't one specific test, as blingitback said, it is most likely various antibody levels that need expert interpretation. Good that you have an appointment on Monday. Try not to panic over the weekend - you will have some answers soon.

You may have some form of arthritis. There are over 100 types and a GP will not be able to diagnose which is why they are sending you to a rheumatologist.

You also may not have arthritis, but again you need to see the rheumatolagist to find out.

Good luck.

If it is arthritis, it is not the end, I was diagnosed at 26, there are some good drugs that can help with pain and inflammation.

So sorry you are going through this at your young age. Hope you get some positive/encouraging information at your appt with the specialist tomorrow.
Good luck

ps
I mean on Monday.

From your last post, it sounds like your Rheumatoid Factor and inflammatory markers (ESR and/or CRP) are elevated. I was diagnosed with RA at the age of 21 and although personally, I've had a tough ride, it really isn't the end of the world. The newer drugs are a huge improvement on how they used to be and rheumatologists say they are seeing a general improvement in patients' quality of life because of it.

So glad you're seeing someone quickly though. That's the key to getting things under control quickly. Please keep us updated and take care of yourself.