What Is Systemic Lupus?
5. Diagnosis
Diagnosing systemic lupus erythematosus can be difficult. Not only do the symptoms vary widely, but they can also mimic those of other conditions. However, there are 11 common signs of the disease. If your doctor can confirm four of them, he or she may make a diagnosis of SLE.
One of the most important tests used to diagnose systemic lupus erythematosus is the antinuclear antibody blood test. Not everyone with a positive ANA test has SLE, but almost everyone with SLE has a positive ANA test. Other lab tests include urinalysis and complete blood count.
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