How is SLE diagnosed?
Diagnosing SLE can be challenging because the disease varies considerably from person to person, and the signs and symptoms come and go unpredictably and may overlap with other diseases. Many patients often require multiple visits to the doctor before the diagnosis is established. Evaluation involves taking a detailed history, physical examination and laboratory tests. Additional tests may be required depending on the type of body systems affected.
Common tests performed are:
- Full blood count, renal and liver function tests
- Inflammatory markers tests
- Urine tests
- Auto-antibodies tests (e.g. ANA, anti-dsDNA, anti-Sm)
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Chest X-ray
Sometimes, more detailed imaging (e.g. CT scan of abdomen and lungs), skin or kidney biopsy may be required.
Patients with SLE are also at risks of developing other autoimmune diseases (e.g. Sjogren’s syndrome, anti-phospholipid syndrome) which will require further evaluation.
How is SLE treated?
There is effective treatment available to control SLE. With early diagnosis and treatment, most SLE patients lead meaningful and productive lives.
Management of SLE will require seamless co-operation between patients and doctors. Effective treatment aims to control the disease and maintain remission.
This comprises medications and lifestyle changes.
