Here's a general outline of the diagnostic process for lupus:
Medical history and symptoms: Your doctor will ask you about your medical history in detail, including any current or past illnesses, medications you are taking, and family history of autoimmune diseases. They will also inquire about the symptoms you are experiencing, such as fatigue, joint pain, fever, skin rash, hair loss, and mouth sores.
Physical examination: A physical examination will be performed to check for signs of lupus, such as swollen glands, a butterfly-shaped rash on the face, and joint pain or swelling.
Laboratory tests: Several blood and urine tests may be ordered to help diagnose lupus. These tests can help assess your blood cell count, kidney function, liver function, and immune system function.
-
Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test: This is a common test used to screen for lupus. A positive ANA test indicates that your immune system is producing antibodies against your own tissues. However, a positive ANA test alone is not diagnostic of lupus, as it can also occur in people with other conditions or even healthy people.
Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test
-
Anti-dsDNA antibody test: This test is more specific for lupus than the ANA test. A positive anti-dsDNA antibody test is a strong indicator of lupus.
-
Other autoantibody tests: There are other autoantibody tests that may be helpful in diagnosing lupus, such as anti-Sm, anti-RNP, and antiphospholipid antibodies.
-
Complete blood count (CBC): This test measures the number and types of blood cells in your blood.
-
Urinalysis: This test checks for abnormalities in your urine, such as protein or blood, which can be a sign of kidney problems.
-
Complement levels: Complement proteins are part of the immune system and help to fight infection. Low levels of complement can be a sign of lupus.
Imaging tests: In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, chest X-rays, or ultrasounds may be used to help diagnose lupus or assess the involvement of internal organs.
Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy may be needed to confirm a diagnosis of lupus. A biopsy involves taking a small sample of tissue from an affected area, such as the skin or kidney, and examining it under a microscope.
It is important to note that diagnosing lupus can be a time-consuming process. There is no single test that can definitively diagnose lupus, and doctors often need to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms before making a diagnosis. If you are concerned that you may have lupus, it is important to see a doctor for evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment of lupus can help to prevent serious complications.