Description

Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus or SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. It can affect nearly any organ—including the joints, skin, kidneys, lungs, heart, brain, and blood vessels. Symptoms are often unpredictable, with flares followed by periods of improvement.

Common symptoms include:

  • Fatigue
  • Joint pain or stiffness
  • Skin rashes (especially across the cheeks)
  • Fever
  • Hair loss
  • Mouth sores
  • Swelling in the hands, feet, or face
  • Headaches or confusion
  • Shortness of breath
  • Blood clots

Because symptoms vary widely and mimic other conditions, early testing is critical for proper diagnosis and management.

This Panel Includes the Following Biomarkers:

Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) Screen with Reflex to Titer and Pattern

  • Purpose: Detects antinuclear antibodies, which are commonly present in lupus and other autoimmune diseases.
  • How it works: If ANA is positive, the test reflexes to measure the titer (amount of antibodies) and identify the staining pattern, which may suggest specific types of autoimmune conditions.
  • Why it matters: A positive ANA is found in over 95% of lupus patients. While it’s not exclusive to lupus, it is a crucial first step in diagnosis and can prompt further autoimmune testing.

C-Reactive Protein (CRP)

  • Purpose: Measures levels of inflammation in the body.
  • Why it matters: While CRP is not specific to lupus, it helps assess disease activity. Elevated CRP can indicate a lupus flare or other inflammatory processes, guiding treatment decisions.

Test Preparation:

  • Fasting: Not required
  • Sample Type: Blood (venipuncture)

Recommended For Individuals With:

  • Ongoing or unexplained fatigue and joint pain
  • Rash, hair loss, or unexplained fever
  • Suspected autoimmune disease or lupus
  • Personal or family history of autoimmune conditions
  • Evaluation prior to seeing a rheumatologist

Why This Panel Matters:

Lupus can be difficult to diagnose due to its wide range of symptoms and overlap with other conditions. This blood panel offers a targeted starting point by identifying key autoimmune markers and measuring inflammation. If results are abnormal, your healthcare provider may order additional tests for a more complete picture.