Question 1

What is false positive result in certain conditions?

Accepted Answer

False positive results occur when a laboratory test indicates the presence of a condition or infection that is not actually present in the patient. This phenomenon is commonly caused by autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, where the immune system produces antibodies that cross-react with test components or cause nonspecific polyclonal B cell activation. The Hepatitis B Core Antibody IgM test is the most important test to understand false positive results, as it frequently shows false positivity in autoimmune conditions.

Question 2

What causes false positive blood test results?

Accepted Answer

False positive blood test results are caused by autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and other conditions where the immune system is overactive. In these conditions, the body produces antibodies that can cross-react with components used in laboratory tests, leading to positive results even when the actual infection or condition being tested for is not present. Nonspecific polyclonal activation of B cells in autoimmune patients can mimic the antibody response seen in real infections, particularly affecting tests like the Hepatitis B Core Antibody IgM test.

Question 3

What is the best test to understand false positive results?

Accepted Answer

The Hepatitis B Core Antibody IgM test is the most important test for understanding false positive results because it is known to produce false positivity in patients with autoimmune disorders. This test detects antibodies that can appear positive due to nonspecific polyclonal B cell activation rather than actual Hepatitis B infection. When interpreting this test, healthcare providers must consider your complete medical history, especially if you have rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or other autoimmune conditions. Confirmatory testing using different methodologies may be recommended to distinguish between true infection and false positive results caused by immune system dysfunction.

Question 4

When should I get tested for false positive results?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you have received a positive result on an infectious disease test but lack typical symptoms of that infection, especially if you have been diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. Testing is also important if your doctor suspects your immune system may be causing interference with standard laboratory tests, or if you need confirmatory testing to verify whether a previous positive result was accurate. Getting proper testing helps avoid unnecessary treatments and provides clarity about your actual health status.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of false positive results?

Accepted Answer

False positive results themselves do not cause symptoms, as they are laboratory findings rather than actual medical conditions. However, patients who receive false positive results may have underlying autoimmune conditions that do cause symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes, fever, or inflammation. The confusion arises when a test shows positive for an infection like Hepatitis B, but the patient has no symptoms of that specific infection. This discrepancy between test results and clinical presentation often prompts healthcare providers to investigate the possibility of false positivity.

Question 6

Who is at risk for false positive blood test results?

Accepted Answer

Patients with autoimmune disorders are at highest risk for false positive blood test results, particularly those with rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjogren syndrome, and other conditions involving chronic immune system activation. People taking immunosuppressive medications or those with chronic inflammatory conditions may also experience false positive results. Additionally, individuals who have recently received vaccinations or have had recent viral infections may temporarily produce antibodies that interfere with certain laboratory tests, though this is less common than false positivity related to autoimmune disease.

Question 7

What happens if false positive results are left unaddressed?

Accepted Answer

If false positive results are not properly identified and addressed, patients may undergo unnecessary treatments, experience significant anxiety, or face medical complications from interventions they do not actually need. For example, a false positive Hepatitis B test could lead to unnecessary antiviral therapy, liver monitoring, or lifestyle restrictions that are not medically indicated. False positive results can also affect insurance coverage, employment opportunities, and personal relationships if not properly clarified. Proper investigation and confirmatory testing are essential to prevent these consequences and ensure patients receive appropriate care based on their actual health status.

Question 8

Can false positive results be diagnosed with blood tests?

Accepted Answer

Yes, false positive results can be identified through blood tests by using confirmatory testing with different methodologies or by testing for markers of autoimmune disease that explain the false positivity. When a false positive is suspected, healthcare providers may order repeat testing using alternative test methods, conduct clinical correlation with symptoms and medical history, or perform autoimmune panels to identify underlying conditions causing the interference. The combination of multiple testing approaches and clinical evaluation helps distinguish between true positive results indicating actual infection or disease and false positive results caused by immune system dysfunction.

Question 9

How are false positive results addressed?

Accepted Answer

False positive results are addressed through confirmatory testing using different laboratory methods, clinical correlation with patient symptoms and medical history, and consideration of underlying autoimmune conditions. Healthcare providers may order supplemental tests that use alternative detection methods less susceptible to interference from autoimmune antibodies. Treatment focuses on managing the underlying autoimmune condition if present, rather than treating the condition incorrectly identified by the false positive test. Patient education is also essential to reduce anxiety and ensure understanding that the positive test result does not indicate actual infection or disease.

Question 10

How can I prevent false positive blood test results?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot completely prevent false positive results if you have an autoimmune condition, you can minimize confusion by informing your healthcare provider and laboratory about your complete medical history, including any autoimmune diagnoses, before testing. Choosing laboratories that use multiple testing methodologies or confirmatory testing protocols can help identify false positives more quickly. Working with healthcare providers who understand the relationship between autoimmune conditions and test interference ensures proper interpretation of results. Maintaining good control of underlying autoimmune conditions through appropriate treatment may also reduce the likelihood of false positive results on some tests.

Question 11

What can I do at home if I receive a false positive result?

Accepted Answer

If you receive a positive test result that seems inconsistent with your symptoms or health status, do not panic and avoid self-treatment based solely on the result. Document your symptoms or lack of symptoms related to the condition being tested, and gather information about your medical history, particularly any autoimmune diagnoses, to share with your healthcare provider. Request a consultation to discuss confirmatory testing and the possibility of false positivity, especially if you have rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or other autoimmune conditions. Avoid making major lifestyle changes or starting treatments until confirmatory testing is completed and your healthcare provider has reviewed your complete clinical picture.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

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.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

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.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

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!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

False Positive Blood Test Results

What is False positive result in certain conditions?

What causes false positive blood test results?

What is the best test to understand false positive results?

When should I get tested for false positive results?

References

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