What is this test?
This laboratory test is performed on a blood sample to detect the presence of LE (Lupus erythematosus) cells. It is a screening test for Systemic lupus erythematosus.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed to diagnose systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune disease.
- What is SLE?
Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic, autoimmune disease that affects multiple systems of the body including skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, blood vessels, and brain.
- What are LE cells?
Lupus erythematosus (LE) cells neutrophils that have engulfed lymphocyte nuclei. This is a degenerating nucleus which may be white blood cell or lymphocyte.
- Positive LE cells are seen in which conditions?
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Drug-induced lupus erythematosus
- Other auto-immune diseases.
- What are the risks of this test?
Collecting blood from a vein is a very easy procedure and pose only minimum risk, including:
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Infection
- How to prepare for this test?
Inform your doctor about your use of all the prescribed and non-prescribed medicines. No special preparations are required for this test.
Negative or positive
Interpretation of test results:
Negative: Normally, no LE cells are present in the blood. SLE is not diagnosed.
Positive: LE cells are present indicating Lupus.
You should get tested if you have the following symptoms:
- Butterfly shape rash on nose and cheeks
- Muscle pain
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Anemia
- Clotting problems.