I've Been Diagnosed

**AmyBoz** · 05-05-2008, 05:12 PM

Okay, so for the past few months, I've been battling a growing lump in my neck. Long story short, had an MRI, surgical oncologist said he needed it out in order to give a definitive diagnosis. Had surgical excision two Fridays ago.

I haven't mentioned this because if it was nothing, then why worry people? If it was something, we could deal with it and talk about it then.

So, I got a call from my doctor last week (left a message) saying that it was not lymphoma (which had been his main concern) and that we'd talk at my post-op to discuss what it is.

Fast-forward to today: I'm just going to cut and paste what I e-mailed a friend of mine because I don't feel like typing it all out. Hope you don't mind:

Okay, now, let me begin by saying that I am not joking. I thought the doctor was joking when he told me what I have, but he wasn’t; although, he admitted to having to look it up because he’s never heard of it before.

Apparently I have a disease called Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease. Yeah, that’s right. Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease. Anyway, what it is, is a very rare disease that only strikes young, Asian women. There have been only a few occurrences in Europe, and I didn’t read any incidences in the US. It is usually a precursor to or a symptom of lupus, but I don’t have lupus right now, and I don’t believe I will develop it. He didn’t seem concerned. Anyway, it is an infection of the lymph nodes which in most cases resolves itself within a few weeks. In extreme cases (guess who?) it needs to be resolved surgically. So, if any more develop, he’ll remove them. It’s not fatal on its own and is really more uncomfortable than anything else. So, in essence, I have a rare disease, but it’s a stupid disease and I’m fine.

That's the end of the e-mail. And, for those who don't know...I'm not Asian, nor do I have any Asian blood in me. Crazy, huh?

I'm all recovered from the surgery. I took a few days off of work because the anesthesia took its sweet time getting out my system, but I'm fine now. The only lingering result I have are two muscle knots in my back and shoulder, on the side where the surgery was. I can't lift my right arm up, but he said that if it doesn't resolve in a few more days, he'll prescribe some physical therapy. I think I'll take some hot baths and have dh give me a massage...Hey, doctors orders...he's gotta do it, right?

So, I just thought I'd share the crazy news with you all.! Unreal, right? Life is full of surprises.

**Ceashels** · 05-05-2008, 05:18 PM

I am so glad you are fine. What a scare that must have been for you to go thru.
Blessings to you.

**jones10021** · 05-05-2008, 05:22 PM

I wonder how many people have even heard of the Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease. Sounds like a Japanese dish to me. Wish you a fast recovery.

**AmyBoz** · 05-05-2008, 05:23 PM

Originally Posted by jones10021

Sounds like a Japanese dish to me.

That's exactly what my Dad said!

**Dancing Lotus** · 05-05-2008, 05:27 PM

Weird. Glad it wasn't anything to bad but I wish you a fast recovery.

**YankeeMom** · 05-05-2008, 05:38 PM

How odd! I'm so glad it wasn't anything more serious.

**SewCrafty** · 05-05-2008, 05:39 PM

Whew Amy, I am so glad you had it taken care of, know what it is and how to deal with it.

as I do know what the waiting feels like and it isn't fun.

I also vote for the 'massage'!

**Michelle** · 05-05-2008, 06:30 PM

Thank goodness it wasn't anything more serious.

**emily_hope** · 05-05-2008, 06:37 PM

Ok.... that is very strange that you would have that and you aren't even Asian. I am glad it was nothing more serious. I think you deserve a massage!

**mom2matty** · 05-05-2008, 06:37 PM

I'm glad you are ok and that it isn't anything more serious!

**C@rol** · 05-05-2008, 06:41 PM

Amy, I am so glad everything is alright.
What a scary time for you.
Take care.

**Jskell911** · 05-05-2008, 06:51 PM

What a strange diagnosis. However, it shows the oncologist is on top of things, which is great! I hope it doesn't give too much discomfort.

**luv-my-lexi** · 05-05-2008, 07:42 PM

I am so glad it is nothing too serious.

to you and hoping your back, arm and shoulder feel better soon.

**Darlene** · 05-05-2008, 08:05 PM

Sounded like a WWF tag team to me.

So glad you have a name to this stupid thing and can deal with it. Whew scary stuff & yes, a great massage from dh is just what the doctor ordered:qv= - quatum vis, as much as you wish

Continued good health wishes!!!