July-August Blog

Just a reminder we have moved to theColonnade (Chile's, Jason's Deli, Abuelo's area).  We are on the Southeast side of the complex opposite of where we used  to be.  Drop by and say hi.  We are right next door (right side) of the entrance to Tuesday Morning's.  Our overhead sign is up reading CHIROPRACTOR

Clinical Condition:

Systemic Lupus Erythematosis (SLE):

 Lupus is an arthritic condition which is less destructive than Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and is referred to as the great immitator.  It mimics a lot of other conditions.    Typically, it is found more frequently with women than men and its cause is not known, although autoimmune issues and genetics may be factors.  Environmental factors are also suspect.  Patients frequently present with a fever and joint pain affecting the hands, wrists, knees and other joints.  75% of patients have joint pain.  A percentage (about 30-50%) of patients also present with what is called a malar or "butterfly rash" on their cheeks.  It can lead to inflammation of the heart, kidneys and joints.  It also causes a decrease in red and white blood cells and platelets.  This condition, called pancytopenia, can cause such things as fatigue, infection, nose bleeds, petechiae, rapid heart beat, shortness of breath, and pallor.  Lab tests are necessary to diagnose the condition and generally demonstrate an increase anti-nuclear antibody (ANA), anti-Smith antibodies and HLA-DR3 and sometimes a positive rheumatoid factor as well as the decrease blood red, white and platelet cell findings.  Liver enzymes and renal function need to be assessed as well.  A complete blood count is generally ordered.

Lupus can wax and wane with respect to symptoms.  It can affect the joints, lungs, heart, skin, liver and kidneys.  Neuropsychiatric conditions can exist as well such as:  headache (most common), depression seizures, mood disorders and anxiety.  In younger patients, 3-15 years old, females are 4 times more likely to have lupus than males.  The butterfly rash also shows up commonly. 

Medical NEWS:

• AUTISM:  a recent National Academy of Sciences article by CALTECH researches has found a connection with an overactive immune system and autism.  It makes me wonder if there is connection to vaccines given to those with an overactive autoimmune system thereby triggering the autism.
• ABUSED CHILDREN are more likely to have cancer as adults.