Question 1

What is Lupus?

Accepted Answer

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy tissues and organs throughout the body. It is caused by the production of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) that target the body's own cells, along with decreased complement proteins like C3 and C4 that are consumed during immune complex clearance. The ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern is the most important test for lupus diagnosis because it detects the characteristic autoantibodies present in over 95% of lupus patients.

Question 2

What causes lupus?

Accepted Answer

Lupus is caused by a malfunction in the immune system that produces antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and other autoantibodies that attack healthy tissues throughout the body. These antibodies form immune complexes that deposit in organs like the kidneys, joints, skin, and brain, causing inflammation and tissue damage. The exact trigger remains unknown, but genetics, hormones, environmental factors like sunlight exposure, infections, and certain medications can all contribute to developing lupus in susceptible individuals.

Question 3

What is the best test for lupus?

Accepted Answer

The ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern is the most important test for lupus because it detects antinuclear antibodies present in over 95% of lupus patients and provides both concentration levels and staining patterns that help distinguish lupus from other autoimmune conditions. For comprehensive diagnosis, the Complement Component C3c and C4c test is essential because low levels are characteristic of active lupus and indicate how much your immune system is consuming these proteins. Additional tests like C-Reactive Protein (CRP) help monitor inflammation levels and disease activity, while the Complement Component C1q test further assesses immune complex clearance when C3 and C4 are abnormal.

Question 4

When should I get tested for lupus?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience a combination of symptoms like unexplained joint pain and swelling, extreme fatigue that does not improve with rest, a butterfly-shaped rash across your cheeks and nose, or skin rashes that worsen with sun exposure. Other warning signs include persistent low-grade fevers, chest pain when breathing deeply, unexplained hair loss, fingers turning white or blue in cold temperatures, or repeated kidney problems. Because lupus symptoms can come and go and often mimic other conditions, testing is especially important if you have a family history of autoimmune diseases or if multiple symptoms persist for several weeks.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of lupus?

Accepted Answer

Lupus symptoms vary widely but commonly include extreme fatigue, joint pain and swelling, a distinctive butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose, and sensitivity to sunlight that triggers rashes. Other symptoms include unexplained fevers, chest pain with deep breathing, hair loss, mouth sores, swollen lymph nodes, and Raynaud's phenomenon where fingers and toes turn white or blue in cold temperatures. Many people also experience cognitive issues like brain fog and memory problems, kidney inflammation that causes swelling in the legs and feet, and blood disorders like anemia or low platelet counts.

Question 6

Who is at risk for lupus?

Accepted Answer

Women are nine times more likely to develop lupus than men, with the highest risk during childbearing years between ages 15 and 45. People of African American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American descent have a two to three times higher risk compared to Caucasians and tend to develop more severe disease. Having a family member with lupus or other autoimmune diseases increases your risk, as lupus has a genetic component. Other risk factors include exposure to certain environmental triggers like Epstein-Barr virus, prolonged sun exposure, smoking, and taking certain medications that can induce lupus-like symptoms.

Question 7

What happens if lupus is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated lupus can cause severe organ damage that becomes irreversible over time. The kidneys are particularly vulnerable, with lupus nephritis potentially progressing to kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplant. Heart complications include increased risk of heart attacks, inflammation of the heart muscle and lining, and accelerated atherosclerosis. Lung damage can cause pulmonary hypertension, chronic inflammation, and increased infection risk. The brain and nervous system can suffer permanent damage leading to strokes, seizures, memory loss, and psychiatric problems. Blood disorders, bone death from poor circulation, pregnancy complications including miscarriage, and significantly increased infection risk are also serious consequences of unmanaged lupus.

Question 8

Can lupus be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Lupus can be diagnosed through a combination of blood tests, though no single test definitively confirms the condition. The ANA Screen IFA test is positive in over 95% of lupus patients and is typically the first test ordered, but a positive ANA alone does not mean you have lupus since it can be elevated in other conditions. Doctors use multiple blood tests together including complement levels (C3, C4, C1q), inflammation markers like CRP, and specialized antibody tests to build a complete picture. These blood test results are interpreted alongside your symptoms, physical examination findings, and medical history to make a diagnosis, which is why working with a rheumatologist who specializes in lupus is important.

Question 9

How is lupus treated?

Accepted Answer

Lupus treatment focuses on controlling immune system overactivity, reducing inflammation, and preventing organ damage through medications tailored to disease severity. Mild cases may only require nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for joint pain and antimalarial drugs like hydroxychloroquine to control symptoms and prevent flares. Moderate to severe lupus requires corticosteroids to quickly suppress inflammation and immunosuppressant medications like azathioprine, mycophenolate, or methotrexate to reduce the immune attack. Severe cases may need biologic medications like belimumab that target specific immune system components. Lifestyle modifications including sun protection, stress management, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and avoiding smoking are essential components of comprehensive lupus management.

Question 10

How can I prevent lupus flares?

Accepted Answer

You can reduce lupus flares by avoiding direct sunlight and wearing SPF 50+ sunscreen, protective clothing, and wide-brimmed hats whenever you go outside, as UV exposure is a major trigger. Getting adequate sleep of 7-9 hours nightly, managing stress through meditation, yoga, or counseling, and exercising regularly with low-impact activities help keep your immune system balanced. Take all medications exactly as prescribed without skipping doses, even when feeling well. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption, as both can worsen symptoms and interfere with medications. Stay up to date with vaccinations to prevent infections that can trigger flares, and maintain regular follow-ups with your rheumatologist to monitor disease activity and adjust treatment before flares become severe.

Question 11

What can I do at home to manage lupus symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Managing lupus at home involves establishing consistent daily routines that support your immune system and reduce inflammation. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids from fish, plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting processed foods and sugar. Apply heat to stiff joints and use ice packs for acute inflammation and pain. Practice gentle exercises like swimming, walking, or yoga to maintain joint flexibility without overexertion, and always listen to your body to avoid overdoing activities. Use stress-reduction techniques daily, maintain a regular sleep schedule, stay hydrated, and keep a symptom diary to identify your personal triggers. Work closely with your healthcare team and do not substitute home remedies for prescribed medications.

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.

Lupus Blood Test

What is Lupus?

What causes lupus?

What is the best test for lupus?

When should I get tested for lupus?

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