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A 29-year-old female asked:
Esr, c3, c4, total hemolytic complement are all high, negative ana, malar rash, could it be lupus?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Thomas Nameyanswered
Rheumatology 50 years experience
Unlikely!: You have obvious inflammation! complement proteins (c3, c4) and ESR -dependent on fibrinogen, are acute phase reactants, that go up with inflammation. You need a specialist in rheumatology. I am certain you do not have lupus!
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5.2k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Neal Birnbaumanswered
Rheumatology 53 years experience
Very unlikely: Only a few patients with a malar rash on their cheeks have lupus. You have had appropriate laboratory tests and none are suggestive of lupus except the elevated esr, which is a very nonspecific measure of inflammation. See a dermatologist if you have done already done so.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated May 18, 2016
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