Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and damage to various body parts, including the skin, joints, blood vessels, and organs. It is most commonly diagnosed in women of childbearing age. Lupus levels can be measured through a variety of lab tests, which can help to diagnose the condition and monitor its progression. A decrease in lupus levels may be an indication of improved health or that treatment is working.
What Do Decreased Lupus Levels Indicate?
When lupus levels are decreased, it may indicate that the disease is in remission or that the treatment is working. In some cases, it may even be an indication of improved health. Decreased lupus levels can be seen in lab tests, such as the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), antinuclear antibodies (ANA), and anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA).
ESR Test
The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a test that measures the rate at which red blood cells settle to the bottom of a tube. An increased rate may be an indication of inflammation or infection. A decrease in ESR levels may be an indication that the inflammation or infection has subsided.
CRP Test
The C-reactive protein (CRP) test measures the level of CRP in the blood. CRP is produced by the liver and is an indicator of inflammation. A decrease in CRP levels may be an indication that the inflammation has subsided.
ANA Test
The antinuclear antibody (ANA) test measures the presence of antibodies in the blood that are directed against the body’s own cells. These antibodies are present in people with lupus and other autoimmune disorders. A decrease in ANA levels may be an indication that the disease is in remission.
Anti-Double-Stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) Test
The anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) test measures the presence of antibodies that are directed against the body’s own DNA. These antibodies are present in people with lupus and other autoimmune disorders. A decrease in anti-dsDNA levels may be an indication that the disease is in remission.
In summary, decreased lupus levels may be an indication of improved health or that treatment is working. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to interpret test results and determine the best course of treatment.