Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease, often presents a complex puzzle for both patients and healthcare professionals. Accurately diagnosing Lupus can be challenging due to its diverse symptoms that mimic other illnesses. Given its complexity, you may be wondering: how is lupus diagnosed?
There are a number of methods providers may use to determine that. Curious what the most common are? Today, PatientsLikeMe will explore the key steps and methods involved in the diagnosis of Lupus.
Clinical Evaluation
Diagnosing Lupus typically begins with a comprehensive clinical evaluation by a rheumatologist, a doctor specializing in autoimmune disorders. The healthcare provider will take a detailed medical history, inquire about symptoms, and conduct a physical examination to identify signs of Lupus.
Questions Your Doctor May Ask You
If your doctor thinks you may have lupus, they'll ask you questions like:
- What symptoms are you having?
- How often do these symptoms occur?
- When did the symptoms start?
- Does anything make your symptoms better or worse?
- Are the symptoms constant or do they come and go?
- Do they get worse during a certain time of the day?
- Do your symptoms get in the way of your daily activities?
They may also ask about your family history with lupus or another autoimmune disease. These details are important because those with a family history of autoimmune diseases are more likely to develop lupus.
Signs of Lupus Indicated In A Physical Exam
During the physical exam, your doctor will be looking for signs that show you may have lupus.
Skin Rash
There are three types of skin rashes that fit the criteria for diagnosing lupus: a butterfly shaped (malar) rash, a red or purple scaly rash on various parts of your body including your arms, fingers, neck, torso, or legs; and a rash resulting from photosensitivity.
Mouth Sores
Mouth sores or ulcers may appear on the roof of the mouth or inside the nose. These are typically painless.
Joint Problems
Stiff, swollen, or painful joints in the arms and legs. This symptom may be preventing you from completing day to day tasks
Organ Inflammation
Pleurisy, inflammation in the lining of the lungs or pericarditis, inflammation in the sac surrounding the heart, can cause chest pain and may indicate lupus. In some cases, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can lead to lupus nephritis, inflammation of the kidneys.
Nervous System Disorders
If lupus affects the nervous system, a person might have seizures or experience psychosis like hallucinations or delusions.
Blood Tests
Blood tests play a crucial role in Lupus diagnosis. Several specific blood markers, such as antinuclear antibodies (ANA), anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA), and anti-Smith antibodies, are often elevated in individuals with Lupus.
Types of blood tests include:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Antibody tests
- Blood clotting time tests
- Complement tests
These tests help confirm the presence of autoimmune activity in the body.
Complement Levels
Complement proteins are essential components of the immune system. Low levels of complement proteins, particularly C3 and C4, may indicate Lupus activity. Monitoring complement levels can aid in both diagnosis and assessing disease severity.
Kidney Function Tests
Lupus nephritis, inflammation of the kidneys, is a common complication. Urinalysis and tests measuring kidney function are conducted to detect any abnormalities, helping to identify Lupus-related kidney involvement.
Imaging Studies
In some cases, imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans may be recommended to assess the extent of organ damage caused by Lupus. These tests provide valuable insights, especially if joint or organ involvement is suspected.
Biopsy
A biopsy may be performed if organ involvement is suspected, such as in the case of Lupus nephritis or skin lesions. Tissue samples are examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment decisions.
Monitoring Symptoms
Lupus is a dynamic disease, and symptoms can evolve over time. Healthcare providers often monitor patients regularly to track changes in symptoms and adjust treatment plans accordingly.
For additional information take a look at the resources PatientsLikeMe has on lupus. Come and create a free account today to connect with other members also living with the condition, share your experiences, and take charge of your care!
