Lupus is a long-term autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. This can cause inflammation, swelling, and damage to various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, heart, lungs, blood vessels, brain, and kidneys.
Red Blood Cell Count
People with lupus often have a decreased red blood cell count, which is known as anemia. Anemia is caused by the destruction of red blood cells by the immune system, as well as decreased production of red blood cells due to inflammation and damage to the bone marrow. Anemia can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and pale skin.
White Blood Cell Count
People with lupus often have an increased white blood cell count, which is known as leukocytosis. Leukocytosis is caused by an increased production of white blood cells due to inflammation and damage to the bone marrow. An increased white blood cell count can lead to an increased risk of infection.
Platelet Count
People with lupus often have a decreased platelet count, which is known as thrombocytopenia. Thrombocytopenia is caused by the destruction of platelets by the immune system, as well as decreased production of platelets due to inflammation and damage to the bone marrow. Thrombocytopenia can cause easy bruising and bleeding.
Kidney Function Test Results
People with lupus often have decreased kidney function, which can be detected with a kidney function test. Kidney damage can be caused by inflammation and damage to the kidneys, as well as the buildup of antibodies in the kidneys. Decreased kidney function can cause swelling, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of infection.