Can autoimmune disease be seen on a standard blood test?
Overview
Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders in which the immune system mistakenly attacks its own body, resulting in damage to healthy tissues and organs. These diseases can affect any part of the body, and can be difficult to diagnose due to the wide variety of symptoms they can cause. While there is no single test that can detect all autoimmune diseases, a standard blood test can sometimes reveal signs that may indicate the presence of an autoimmune disorder.
Types of Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases are incredibly varied and encompass a wide range of conditions. Some of the most common autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, lupus, and inflammatory bowel disease. Each of these conditions is caused by an overactive immune system that mistakenly attacks the body's own cells and tissues.
Blood Tests for Autoimmune Diseases
A standard blood test, also known as a complete blood count (CBC), is often the first step in diagnosing an autoimmune disease. The test measures levels of different components of the blood, including red and white blood cells, platelets, hemoglobin, and other proteins. Abnormalities in these levels can indicate the presence of an autoimmune disorder.
For example, an elevated white blood cell count may suggest the presence of an infection, while a low red blood cell count can be a sign of anemia, which can be caused by some autoimmune diseases. In addition, the presence of certain autoantibodies in the blood can be an indicator of an autoimmune disorder.
Conclusion
While a standard blood test cannot definitively diagnose an autoimmune disease, it can provide valuable insight into the presence of an underlying condition. If the results of a CBC are abnormal, further testing may be necessary to determine the cause and to get an accurate diagnosis.
