Lupus Panel

Our Lupus Panel is a blood test that can be helpful in the diagnosis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), which is known as the most common form of Lupus, affecting multiple organs and systems in the body.

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and damage to various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, blood vessels, and brain. In autoimmune diseases like lupus, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, thinking they are foreign invaders. This can lead to a wide range of symptoms and can vary greatly from person to person in terms of severity and the organs affected.

Why should a Lupus Panel be considered?

1. Early Detection: This panel can help in the early detection of lupus. The ANA (antinuclear antibody) test, a part of this panel, is a commonly used screening that detects antibodies that can attack the body's own tissues, suggesting an autoimmune process.
2. Identifying the Cause of Symptoms: If you're experiencing symptoms that could be related to lupus, such as joint pain, skin rashes, fatigue, and fever, getting tested can help determine if lupus is the underlying cause. Early identification is key to managing lupus effectively.
3. Diagnosis Confirmation: Autoimmune diseases can present with a wide variety of symptoms that overlap with many other conditions, making diagnosis challenging. A positive Lupus Panel, followed by more detailed analysis through the IFA (immunofluorescence assay) with reflex to titer and pattern, also included in this test if initially positive, helps in confirming or ruling out the diagnosis of lupus and differentiating it from other autoimmune disorders.
4. Understanding Disease Specifics: The titer in the test indicates the amount of antibodies present, which helps assess the severity of the autoimmune response. The pattern of fluorescence detected can pinpoint specific nuclear antigens targeted by antibodies, aiding in identifying specific features of the disease. Different patterns are associated with different types of autoimmune diseases and can provide insights into the nature of the immune response.
5. Guiding Treatment: The results of this test can inform the treatment strategy. For example, certain patterns and high titers of antibodies are associated with more severe disease manifestations and might prompt more aggressive lupus treatment.
6. Monitoring Disease Progression and Flares: For those already diagnosed with lupus, periodic re-testing can be important in monitoring the course of the disease and the effectiveness of the treatment. Changes in the antibody titer and pattern can indicate a flare-up or remission, influencing adjustments in therapy.

This Lupus Panel is crucial for accurate diagnosis, management, and monitoring of lupus. Also, getting tested for lupus when symptoms suggest it or when there's a significant family history, is a proactive health measure. It enables better management through tailored treatment strategies and lifestyle adjustments, which can significantly impact long-term health outcomes.