Hi, I am a 28 year old female and I have recently been diagnosed with polyarteritis nodosa. It's been 10 long painful months of seeing different doctors, 4 skin biopsies and being hospitalized with aneima, to finally get a proper diagnosis. This all started in November 2008 with a small tender lump under my ankle bone...now it seems as if my whole ankle and lower part of my leg are being taken over with lumps, swelling, skin discoloration, burning, stabbing excruciating pain. I am finding it difficult to even walk and I can't wear my shoes...only sandles. I have meny questions, and I have researched this disease as much as possible but there are still concerns that perhaps someone can help me with. I am waiting for my family doctor to refer me to an internalist. I am wondering what kinds of doctors I should be seeing? I am also wondering how long can this disease go untreated? I know early treatment is best, but how early is early? I know there are meny people who have suffered alot longer then I have, but sometimes I just feel like giving up because I am in so much pain. I feel I have no quality of life right now. Any suggestions as to what my next steps should be, will be appriciated. I don't feel meny of the doctors I have seen are very informed about this disease. What should I do to help myself? Thanks Blackey7