Blood Tests for Still's Disease
Still's disease is a rare type of autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the body. It is not well understood, and diagnosis can be difficult. Fortunately, there are a few blood tests that can be used to help diagnose and monitor the disease.
Serology Tests Serology tests are used to detect antibodies that are specific to Still's disease. These antibodies are produced by the body when it is fighting the disease. The most common serology test is the anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) test. This test looks for antibodies produced against the body's own cells, and it can be a sign of an autoimmune disorder. Other serology tests that may be used to diagnose Still's disease include the rheumatoid factor (RF) test, the anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) test, and the anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) test.
Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) Test The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test is used to measure the rate at which red blood cells settle in a tube of blood. An elevated ESR is usually a sign of inflammation, and it can be used to monitor the disease as it progresses.
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test The C-reactive protein (CRP) test is used to measure levels of a protein that is released in response to inflammation. It is one of the most reliable tests for detecting inflammation, and it can be used to monitor the progression of the disease.
White Blood Cell Count A white blood cell count is used to measure the number of white blood cells in the blood. An elevated white blood cell count can be a sign of an infection or inflammation, and it can be used to help diagnose and monitor Still's disease.
Other Tests Other tests that may be used to diagnose or monitor Still's disease include a complete blood count (CBC), a urine test, and imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI.
In conclusion, there are several blood tests that can be used to diagnose and monitor Still's disease. These tests can help your doctor determine if you have the disease and track its progression. However, it is important to remember that these tests are not always accurate and should be used in conjunction with other tests and a physical examination.