How Is Lupus Diagnosed

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Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that can be difficult to diagnose due to a wide range of symptoms and the fact that the signs and symptoms vary greatly between patients. Many patients experience a prolonged period of fluctuating symptoms and intermittent flare-ups before diagnosis, which can make it hard to detect. To make matters worse, lupus can affect almost any organ system, complicating the diagnosis process further. To receive an accurate lupus diagnosis, an individual must meet certain criteria after physicians have conducted a series of tests.

For an individual to be diagnosed with lupus, both the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) have specific diagnostic criteria. This abstract set of questions helps physicians identify if an individual has lupus or not. It should cover symptom history, physical examination and the results of laboratory tests and radiological imaging. Common questions include “Have you had fatigue or joint pain?”, “Have you had any unusual hair loss?”, “Have you had any photosensitivity?”

After answering these questions and undergoing physical examination and detailed medical tests, a patient can be given a lupus diagnosis if any 4 of the 11 ACR criteria (or 4 of the 16 SLICC criteria) are present. The criteria often overlap as patients who have systemic lupus erythematosus (the most common form of lupus) often experience myalgia, anemia, arthritis and gastrointestinal issues. Symptoms can also range from mild to severe and the condition can worsen or improve at any time.

Although lupus is hard to diagnose, the importance of accurately diagnosing lupus should not be underestimated. The sooner a diagnosis is made, the earlier treatment can begin, helping to reduce the chance of organ damage in the long term. As early diagnosis and prompt treatment are key to managing lupus, it is important to look out for the signs and risk factors such as a family history or exposure to UV light or certain medications.

Once lupus is suspected, the first step towards receiving a diagnosis is for a patient to consult their doctor. It is important to be open and honest with the doctor and provide as many details as possible so that the doctor can accurately assess the symptoms and decide whether to arrange tests or refer the patient to a specialist.

It is not always easy to diagnose lupus due to its versatile nature and wide range of symptoms, however, it is important for anyone experiencing the symptoms to go to their doctor and discuss their concerns. Regular testing and assessment is the only way to ensure an accurate lupus diagnosis and, as soon as treatment begins, the steps can be taken to manage this long-term condition.