Jon/Daveman,
I'll tell you what that doc has against doing those tests --
(1) He has to have his own medical rationale to order the tests, because he needs to document that reason in his records. He won't want to write, "Testing for .......... because patient wants it done," when there isn't a clear reason for him that they be done. In the US, if the doc doesn't have a clear rationale for ordering tests, the patient's insurance company will most likely not pay for them. Then the patient gets angry with the doc. It's a vicious cycle.
(2) If an abnormality shows up, he'll need to act on it. But he might not know how to act on it because he's POIS-ignorant (as are most docs at the moment -- but that will be changing soon!)
In his own way, Jon's doc was being ethical. But -- it sounds like he was also being insensitive.
There are several bio-markers in the blood for inflammation -- the cheapest and most commonly ordered one (and least specific) is called a Sed Rate (erythrocyte sedimentation rate). If it is elevated, it won't tell the doc why, but it will show that somewhere in the body, there may be inflammation -- or an infection. The doc could then investigate the source of the inflammation further (more specific blood tests) based on symptoms, or refer a patient to a rheumatologist or immunologist.
In general, rheumatologists and/or immunologists are experienced in testing for inflammatory/autoimmune conditions. From my experience, just to let you know, both specialists generally LOVE A MYSTERY medical case
Speaking very honestly here -- in general, it's not a great idea to go in to a doc's office and tell him/her what tests you want done (even if they are the CORRECT tests). I think it puts them on the edge -- can't give you a reason why -- maybe it's just egotism. Don't know.
The main thing to remember is that if a doctor treats you without the utmost respect -- or makes you feel like you're a nut case -- never go back! He/she has just lost a good customer.
