hi everyone

[Terri]

I never allowed the docs to do surgical debridements-- just had a bad feeling about it. They were chomping at the bit to do it and I now know it would have made it worse.

Well Sangye, you know my story on that. If they had known what was wrong I may have a whole leg today.
Speaking of which, I am still in constant pain and it is getting worse. My rheumy just informed me he doesn't know what to do. Any ideas what type of Dr to see? He thought maybe rehab for the circulation. I called several local places and they said they couldn't help me. I'm getting so frustrated. Also it was mentioned that I could possibly have lymphedema. I sure hope not. That will only lead to more problems.

[Sangye]

Yes, you have the worst damage I've ever seen from a vasculitic skin lesion. Have you seen a vascular specialist? (Not a vasculitis specialist--different) I can't think of another specialist to try. I may have to see one too, for circulation issues since blood clots. But no surgery.

[sharon]

Nat i hope all goes well today and you get some answers - unfortunately i have not come across too many - damn our country's small population!
My experience has been once a dr knows you have WG they will see you, as they do not see it very much, if at all, so most are willing to help, it gets their interest. Otherwise any of the bigger hospitals in Brisbane, I do know the PA has treated WG patients in their renal unit, so i could assume they have treated other people with our disease & I was referred to the PA dermatology dept, but got my foot treated privately as it was quicker. I will leave their name as a pvt message on your profile. Often with mycobacterial infections they will refer you to a hospitals Infectious Diseases dept. anyway. Sorry i was not more help, pls let me know how you get on today, take care and ask ?

[Natalie]

Today I seen my GP for a dressing had a big talk . Lab results not back till the end of the week Mycobacteria cultures .. They think my wound looks slightly bigger but is much cleaner . It didnt look nice on sat when I got it dressed. So maybe the big doses of antibiotics are helping a bit .. I know I will be back in hospital soon when my Specialist gets back from a week off but the plan of action is un clear. I will ask for a biopsy thou before any more surgery . and the lab results hopefully will help determin where we go from here . not much else I can do till then .

[elephant]

I love your avatar picture! Hang in there Natalie. Hoping you don't need surgery.