Rash Trouble...

On January 19, 2009 Gracey went in for her regular checkup with the rheumatologist. Unfortunately a week earlier Gracey developed a small rash on both sides of the base of her nose. Very minor, hardly noticable. Our pediatrician looked at it and felt if was a fungal rash and directed us to use a topical cream to handle it. The treatment wasn't exactly what he would use but due to Gracey's other meds (oral Prednisone and methotrexate) this was a safe start. And... he knew we were visiting the rheumy in a few days. Well, the topical treatment just wasn't strong enough and two days before visiting the rheumatologist the rash got worse. By the time the rheumy walked in on Monday morning Gracey's cheeks were rad and looked somewhat like a typical JDM rash.

We were already conderned this could be the beginning of a flare. Hopefully not, but we didn't know for sure if the rash was fungal, nor did we know if it was JDM. Well, the rheumatologist didn't know for sure either. But her hesitation was only out of caution for the prospect of a flare. The rash could be fungal, but this fungal rash was on the outer surface of the skin. It did not explain the deep rash covering much of Gracey's face at the time. JDM could explain that aspect, though.

We were nervous we were going to hear "... go back on IV's again". But instead the doctor appeared concerned and referred us to a pediatric dermatologist that specialized in rheumatic disorders. She wants to get this second opinion to see if the rash really is minor and can be dealt with through less intense methods other than IV's. In this case Gracey would have had to go back on IVIG. Although IV's are a real possibility for Gracey within the next month, there's a chance IV's can be avoided for now.

So we have an appointment with this new specialist on Wednesday, January 28th. From there we will actually have a third opinion about her rash and can better decide the next step.

I should have mentioned up front, but other than this recent rash, Gracey is doing great! No muscle issues, no sickness. Wonderful, wonderful! In fact as of writing this today the rash in question has almost disappeared! Makes me wonder if her last rheumatologists appt were a week later or a week earlier what the outcome would have been. But... we are all looking forward to going to this new dermatologist. Gracey has always had eczema and dry skin so going to such a qualified specialist will be very beneficial.

I'll let you know how this all turns out. It's got us all ttied up in knots. Even Gracey is worried. I've been focusing extra attention on her rash and health to the point of dropping a few of the dozen balls I juggle on a daily basis. :) But as long as Gracey is OK then I'm OK, we are OK.

One more little detail about the little sweety... Her report card came out this week and she got all A+'s. Excellent work!!! She was very, very proud of herself. (I was too).

More soon...