Guest guest Posted May 29, 2004 Report Share Posted May 29, 2004 In a message dated 5/28/2004 8:51:06 PM Pacific Standard Time, LUPIES writes: Allergies, Hypothyroid, Rhumatoid, all auto immune... I didn't think Hypothyroidism fit in there... anyone else hear anything like this or was this young doc sniffing too much oxygen? My allergist tells me that it's unusual for lupies to have allergies because the allergic reaction is to something external, as opposed to the autoimmune process, which is against the body itself. And as for hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, etc., the autoimmune antibodies that mark autoimmune thyroid disease (for example) are specific to thyroid disease and don't indicate or signal any other autoimmune disease is present. Same for rheumatoid arthritis, which can be detected by testing for th RH factor (antibodies). They're still working on finding a lupus specific autoimmne antibody test, but there are some tests (such as for the antiphospholipid antibodies or anti-doublestranded DNA antibodies) that, when positive, are a strong indication that lupus is present. Genetically, it's possible for autoimmunity to seemingly run in families, so there is a feeling among researchers that there is some "root" to it all. But, thankfully, someone with one autoimmune illness might not necessarily develop any others. And there are lots of people running around with allergies who never develop autoimmune disease(s). Great question! Have a wonderful, LONG weekend, everyone! Maureen www.maureenpratt.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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