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Systemic lupus erythematosus – what is this disease?
Systemic lupus erythematosus, also called SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus), is an autoimmune disease of the immune system. In SLE, the immune system attacks the body’s own cells and tissues, causing a variety of symptoms that can affect the skin, joints, nerves, heart, lungs, kidneys and other organs. Lupus is a chronic and highly variable disease, which makes it difficult to diagnose.
How to recognize systemic lupus erythematosus?
Diagnosing lupus can be difficult because the symptoms of the disease are diverse and can mimic other conditions. However, there are many diagnostic tests that can help your doctor make the right diagnosis. Below we present the most important of them.
Lupus diagnosis – ANA and APLA antibodies
Tests for antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and antiphospholipid antibodies (APLA) are often performed in the diagnosis of lupus. The presence of these antibodies may indicate the presence of an autoimmune disease.
Lupus diagnosis – anti-dsDNA
The anti-dsDNA antibodies test assesses the presence of antibodies directed against double-stranded DNA. An increase in the level of these antibodies may be an indicator of lupus activity.
Lupus diagnosis – anti-SS-A and anti-SS-B
Anti-SS-A (antibodies to SS-A) and anti-SS-B (antibodies to SS-B) tests are performed to identify antibodies directed against proteins found in the nuclei of cells. The presence of these antibodies may be associated with lupus.
Lupus diagnosis – anti-RNP and anti-Sm
Anti-RNP (antibodies to RNP) and anti-Sm (antibodies to Sm) tests assess the presence of antibodies against RNA and Sm proteins. An increase in the level of these antibodies may suggest lupus.
Diagnosis of lupus – blood count
A complete blood count may show the presence of anemia or other changes related to lupus.
Lupus diagnosis – CRP and ESR
Measuring levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and passive blood test (ESR) can help monitor inflammation associated with lupus.
Diagnosis of lupus – liver tests (AST and ALT)
Liver enzyme tests, such as AST (aspartate aminotransferase) and ALT (alanine aminotransferase), may be useful in diagnosing lupus and assessing possible liver damage related to the disease.
Lupus diagnosis – creatinine and urine test
Determining the level of creatinine in the blood and urine testing can help assess the function of the kidneys, which are often at risk of damage in lupus.
Are SLE tests reimbursed? How much do they cost privately?
Lupus-related diagnostic tests may be reimbursed by public health systems, but the availability and extent of reimbursement vary by country and region. The costs of private tests can vary significantly, so it is worth consulting your doctor or medical facility for information on this topic.
The presence of antinuclear antibodies has been detected – what next?
If test results show the presence of antinuclear antibodies or other markers suggestive of lupus, your doctor will take further steps to confirm the diagnosis. This may include additional tests, monitoring of symptoms and consultations with specialists such as a rheumatologist.
Your suggestions
If you are suspected or diagnosed with lupus, it is important to monitor your health regularly and work with your doctor to closely control the disease. Treatment for lupus usually involves the use of anti-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory medications and other therapies to control symptoms and prevent complications.
Recommended articles
If you are interested in lupus, it is worth reading articles on the subject available in the medical literature and on the websites of specialized organizations dealing with autoimmune diseases. Finding reliable sources of information can help you better understand lupus and take better care of your health.