Lupus is an autoimmune disease that is difficult to diagnose because signs and symptoms vary greatly from person to person, and lupus signs and symptoms may change over time and overlap with those of many other disorders, according to a Mayo Clinic report. Blood and urine tests, signs and symptoms, and physical examination results to diagnosis.
Tests for lupus erythematosus
Blood and urine tests may include::
Comprehensive blood test:
This test measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets as well as the amount of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells Results may indicate you have anemia, which commonly occurs in lupus A decrease in the number of white blood cells or platelets may occur in disease lupus too.
sedimentation speed
This blood test determines the rate at which red blood cells settle to the bottom of the tube within an hour A faster than normal rate may indicate a systemic disease, such as lupus Sedimentation rate is not specific for any disease alone May be high if you have lupus, an infection, or an inflammatory condition other or cancer.
Kidney and liver functions
Blood tests can assess how well the kidneys and liver are working Lupus can affect these organs.
Urinalysis
A urine sample may show a high level of protein or red blood cells in your urine, which may occur if lupus affects your kidneys.
Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test
A positive test for the presence of these antibodies produced by your immune system indicates that the immune system is stimulated while most people with lupus have a test ANA Positive, most people who have ANA Positive do not suffer from lupus. If the test result is positive for ANA Your doctor may recommend a more specific antibody test.
Diagnostic radiology to detect lupus erythematosus
If your doctor suspects lupus is affecting your lungs or heart, he or she may suggest the following:
Chest X-ray: An image of your chest may reveal abnormal shadows that indicate fluid or inflammation in your lungs.
Echocardiogram: This test uses sound waves to produce real-time images of your heart that can check for problems with the valves and other parts of your heart..
Biopsy: Lupus can harm your kidneys in many different ways, and treatments can vary depending on the type of damage that occurs. In some cases, it is necessary to test a small sample of kidney tissue to determine the best treatment. The sample can be obtained with a needle or through a small incision. A skin biopsy is sometimes done to confirm a diagnosis of lupus in the skin..