Result! I have an appointment for the biopsy. I know this because, having heard precisely nothing from the Royal Cornwall Hospital, I rang the Dermatology department. I gave a nice lady my hospital number, she checked things out, found me on the system - and said the biopsy was scheduled for June.
That's right - June. The "urgently required, lest the rash fades" biopsy is to take place some three months from now.
Now then, before everyone emails telling me that this is a conspiracy and/or that I should have expected this, it's worth remembering that it could be merely a procedural slip. However, whatever its cause, it is a disgrace. It's a great shame that I've had such excellent treatment on the NHS for cervical myelopathy while, in contrast, that for Lyme has been a shambles, but I've had enough of putting up with this being just 'how it is'. I'm moving this battle up a notch now, which may mean that posts become less frequent. However, in time, I hope to provide an update. Here, meanwhile, is the rash as of today. It's accompanied by the usual symptoms - headaches, fatigue, inability to cope with unexpected sound. It is both surprising and regrettable that no one among the medical profession seems remotely interested in sorting them out.
Well clearly no need to e mail you now that you are notching up and thought this was more appropriate.
http://www.vectorjunky.com/gallery/o/Ostrich-Head-Out-of-Sand.jpg
Best wishes
Posted by: Joanne | March 03, 2010 at 07:37 AM
Looks like someone tried to give your entire head a hicky alex. Good luck with the step up , what ever that may be.
Posted by: allie | March 03, 2010 at 12:59 PM
The CDC website says that if Lyme Disease is left untreated, infection can spread to joints, the heart and the nervous system.
In view of your symptoms, on going expanding rash and 4 positive blood tests it suggests the doctor who has clinical responsibility for your care (presumably the neurologist) is breaching their duty of care.
A skin biopsy is a five minute outpatient procedure and a 3 month wait is totally unacceptable.
Alex, you are right, your treatment is a disgrace and I am pleased that you are moving the battle up a notch.
Posted by: Sarah | March 04, 2010 at 01:10 AM
It will only be a matter of time before a doctor (or so called “expert”) is found to be negligent for failing to diagnose Lyme Disease.
This may need to happen before the powers that be really sit up and take notice of what is happening…..
Take control. Keep strong and keep at it. Good luck.
Posted by: Tarnya White | March 04, 2010 at 02:02 AM
Echo Sarahs' comments, look a the targets for England, Access 2009, Referral to treatment times etc, I think you may breach already. Lx
Posted by: Lucy | March 04, 2010 at 05:12 AM
Three months!!! Yet all the guidelines say an EM rash doesn't need biopsy!! What happens if it's negative? Hang on a minute - is that for a biopsy or just for a dermatology routine out-patients appointment with a view to a biopsy at some later date?? You could always be referred NHS to a different hospital with a shorter wait. You would have to travel, but your GP could fax a referral. Surely Exeter would be within reach? http://www.rdehospital.nhs.uk/trust/pr/2009/specialist_skin_service_move.html
By the new rules you are no longer bound to your nearest NHS hospital. Good luck!
Posted by: sandy | March 04, 2010 at 01:31 PM