Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy tissues and organs throughout the body. It is caused by the production of autoantibodies, particularly antinuclear antibodies (ANA), along with immune complex formation and complement consumption that triggers widespread inflammation. The ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern is the most important initial test for diagnosing SLE because it detects the characteristic autoantibodies present in over 95% of lupus patients.
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Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is caused by an overactive immune system that produces autoantibodies, particularly antinuclear antibodies (ANA), which attack the body's own healthy tissues. The exact trigger is unknown, but a combination of genetic factors (especially HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQB1 gene variants), environmental triggers like UV light exposure, infections, and hormonal factors contribute to the disease development. When these autoantibodies form immune complexes, they deposit in various organs and activate the complement system, causing widespread inflammation that can affect the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain.
The ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern is the most important initial test for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus because it detects antinuclear antibodies present in over 95% of lupus patients. A positive ANA with specific patterns strongly suggests lupus and triggers further testing. The Complement Component C3c and C4c test is essential for confirming active disease, as low complement levels indicate the immune system is consuming these proteins during inflammation. Additional tests like Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Beta-2 Microglobulin help assess disease activity and organ involvement, particularly kidney damage. Because lupus is complex, doctors typically use a combination of these blood tests along with your symptoms to make an accurate diagnosis.
You should get tested if you experience a combination of unexplained symptoms including a butterfly-shaped rash across your cheeks and nose, extreme fatigue that does not improve with rest, joint pain and swelling in multiple joints, or unexplained fevers. Testing is especially important if you have persistent symptoms that come and go, sensitivity to sunlight that causes rashes, unexplained hair loss, or if you notice swelling in your legs or around your eyes which could indicate kidney involvement. Women of childbearing age, particularly those with a family history of autoimmune diseases, should consider testing if they experience these symptoms, as lupus is more common in women and people of African, Hispanic, or Asian descent.
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What this means
Your testosterone levels are slightly below the optimal range. While this is not necessarily cause for concern, it may contribute to occasional fatigue, reduced motivation, or lower muscle mass over time.
Recommended actions
Increase resistance or strength training
Prioritize 7–8 hours of quality sleep per night, try to reduce stress
Include more zinc- and magnesium-rich foods (like shellfish, beef, pumpkin seeds, spinach)
Consider retesting in 3–6 months
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