Question 1

What is Discoid Lupus Erythematosus?

Accepted Answer

Discoid Lupus Erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that causes distinctive round, disc-shaped lesions with inflammation and scarring on the face, ears, and scalp. It is caused by an autoimmune response where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin tissue, producing specific antibodies like PCNA. The PCNA Antibody IFA test is the most important test for detecting autoimmune activity associated with discoid lupus.

Question 2

What causes Discoid Lupus Erythematosus?

Accepted Answer

Discoid Lupus Erythematosus is caused by an autoimmune response where your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells and tissues. Your body produces autoantibodies, including PCNA (Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen) antibodies, that target your own skin, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage. While the exact trigger remains unclear, genetic factors, sun exposure, smoking, and certain medications can activate this abnormal immune response, resulting in the characteristic disc-shaped skin lesions that scar and cause permanent damage if left untreated.

Question 3

What is the best test for Discoid Lupus Erythematosus?

Accepted Answer

The PCNA Antibody IFA test is the most important blood test for Discoid Lupus Erythematosus because it detects specific autoantibodies associated with this chronic skin condition. This immunofluorescence assay identifies PCNA antibodies that indicate autoimmune activity targeting skin cells. While skin biopsy remains essential for definitive diagnosis, the PCNA test provides valuable supporting evidence of the autoimmune nature of your condition and helps your doctor monitor disease activity. Although not all patients with discoid lupus have detectable PCNA antibodies, a positive result strongly supports the diagnosis when combined with clinical findings and characteristic skin lesions.

Question 4

When should I get tested for Discoid Lupus Erythematosus?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you notice round, red, scaly patches on your face, ears, or scalp that don't heal and leave scars. Other warning signs include skin lesions that worsen with sun exposure, hair loss in affected areas, changes in skin color or texture, or thick, raised borders around red patches. Get tested promptly if you have a family history of lupus or other autoimmune diseases and develop unexplained skin changes, as early detection allows for better management and can prevent permanent scarring and disfigurement.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of Discoid Lupus Erythematosus?

Accepted Answer

Discoid Lupus causes distinctive round or disc-shaped red patches on your skin that are often raised, scaly, and thickened. These lesions typically appear on sun-exposed areas like your face, ears, scalp, and neck, causing permanent scarring, skin discoloration, and hair loss in affected areas. You might notice that the center of older lesions becomes lighter while the edges remain darker, creating a ring-like appearance. The patches can be itchy or painful, worsen with sunlight exposure, and over time lead to permanent skin changes including depressed scars and loss of normal skin texture.

Question 6

Who is at risk for Discoid Lupus Erythematosus?

Accepted Answer

Discoid Lupus affects women more frequently than men, typically appearing between ages 20 and 40. You're at higher risk if you have a family history of lupus or other autoimmune diseases, are of African, Asian, Hispanic, or Native American descent, or smoke cigarettes. People with fair skin who get frequent sun exposure face increased risk, as ultraviolet light triggers and worsens the condition. Certain medications including hydralazine, procainamide, and some anti-seizure drugs can also trigger lupus-like symptoms in susceptible individuals.

Question 7

What happens if Discoid Lupus Erythematosus is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated Discoid Lupus leads to permanent scarring, disfigurement, and irreversible skin damage that significantly impacts your appearance and quality of life. The lesions continue to spread, destroy hair follicles causing permanent baldness in affected areas, and create thick, discolored scars that never fully heal. Approximately 5-10% of people with discoid lupus develop systemic lupus erythematosus, a more serious condition affecting internal organs including kidneys, heart, and lungs. Chronic skin inflammation also increases your risk of developing skin cancer in scarred areas, making early diagnosis and treatment essential for preventing these serious complications.

Question 8

Can Discoid Lupus Erythematosus be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Discoid Lupus cannot be definitively diagnosed with blood tests alone, as diagnosis primarily relies on skin biopsy and clinical examination of the characteristic lesions. However, the PCNA Antibody IFA blood test provides valuable supporting evidence by detecting autoantibodies associated with the condition. Blood tests help your doctor assess autoimmune activity, rule out systemic lupus, and monitor your condition over time. While some patients with discoid lupus have positive PCNA antibodies, others may have completely normal blood work, which is why the appearance of skin lesions and biopsy results remain the gold standard for diagnosis.

Question 9

How is Discoid Lupus Erythematosus treated?

Accepted Answer

Discoid Lupus is treated with topical corticosteroids applied directly to lesions to reduce inflammation and prevent scarring. Your doctor may prescribe antimalarial medications like hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine, which are highly effective at controlling skin symptoms and preventing disease progression. For severe or resistant cases, immunosuppressive drugs, corticosteroid injections into lesions, or topical calcineurin inhibitors may be necessary. Strict sun protection using broad-spectrum sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours is essential, as ultraviolet light triggers flares. Smoking cessation is critical, as tobacco significantly worsens the condition and reduces treatment effectiveness.

Question 10

How can I prevent Discoid Lupus Erythematosus flares?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent Discoid Lupus flares by consistently using broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on all exposed skin, even on cloudy days. Wear protective clothing including wide-brimmed hats, long sleeves, and sunglasses whenever outdoors, and avoid sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are strongest. Quit smoking immediately, as tobacco dramatically worsens discoid lupus and interferes with treatment. Take your prescribed medications consistently, attend regular follow-up appointments, manage stress through relaxation techniques, and avoid potential trigger medications. Early recognition of new lesions allows prompt treatment before permanent scarring occurs.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with Discoid Lupus Erythematosus?

Accepted Answer

Natural approaches that support Discoid Lupus management include eating an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids from fish, flaxseed, and walnuts, while avoiding processed foods and excess sugar. Apply gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers to prevent skin dryness and irritation, and use cool compresses on active lesions to reduce discomfort. Vitamin D supplementation may help modulate immune function, but consult your doctor first as some supplements can interact with medications. Stress reduction through yoga, meditation, or gentle exercise supports overall immune health. However, these natural approaches should complement, not replace, prescribed medical treatments, as untreated discoid lupus leads to permanent scarring that cannot be reversed.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
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Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
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Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
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Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
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Discoid Lupus Blood Test

What is Discoid Lupus Erythematosus?

What causes Discoid Lupus Erythematosus?

What is the best test for Discoid Lupus Erythematosus?

When should I get tested for Discoid Lupus Erythematosus?

References

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