Can high WBC lead to intermittent hip and upper thigh pain while suffering from an autoimmune disease?
Patient: I have been experiencing hip pain/upper thigh pain that was intermittent and now is consistent.  It is more of a burning type pain.  The pain disrupts sleep and is painful while sitting still. I am a 53yr old female, 175lbs.  Last year  blood work shows my white blood cell count to be slightly elevated but I have seen a oncologist who didn't find anything.  I also have been very tired and have been getting frequent headaches.  I was recently diagnosed with a autoimmune disease Vitilago.  I have seen a dermatalgist and endocrinologist.  No one has any answer.  Where do I go now? Doctor: Hi, thanks for writing to HCM.Hip and upper thigh pain which is of burning nature and is occuring more in sitting position especially in obese individuals (as in your case) is  suggestive of MERALGIA PARESTHETICA. This condition results due to the compression of Lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (pinched nerve) at the level of groin fold.A few conservative measures which are effective in treating this condition includes - wearing loose clothing (avoiding tightness at the level of the waist and groin fold), Loosing weight, taking OTC pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) ibruprofen (Advil) or aspirin, Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles of the legs and buttocks etc.Other causes arising from the Hip joint are also to be excluded by having Xrays and MRI scans, which may also present with similar picture.So, I suggest you to consult an orthopedic surgeon for a detailed clinical examination and further management.Hope this information is helpful. Good day