Autoimmune Profile

FAQ

1. What’s an autoimmune disease?

   An autoimmune disease is one in which the immune system fights against healthy cells and tissues of the body. This causes damage and disruption to the body’s normal function. Some of the most common forms of autoimmune disease include:

   • Rheumatoid arthritis
   • Lupus
   • Celiac disease

   These conditions are chronic and can significantly impact the quality of life. The exact cause of autoimmune diseases is unknown but is believed to result from:

   • Genetic factors
   • Environmental factors
   • Infection with specific virus and bacteria
   • Exposure to chemicals, pesticides, and heavy metals

2. How to test for autoimmune disease?

   To test for an autoimmune disease, you need a blood draw. Your blood sample will be sent to the lab, where technicians will test it for one or more autoantibodies. If they find any irregular antibodies, it might suggest you have an autoimmune disease.

   Your doctor will guide you through further testing to confirm a diagnosis for a specific autoimmune disease. In addition to a blood draw, other tests that may be used in diagnosis include:

   • Ultrasound scan
   • Computed tomography (CT) scan
   • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
   • X-ray imaging of joint damage

3. What autoimmune diseases does this profile test for?

   Tests included in this profile are:

   • Anti-dsDNA
   • Antinuclear Antibodies
   • Complement C3

   The results from these markers can be used to diagnose rheumatic diseases like:

   • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
   • Sjogren Syndrome
   • Scleroderma
   • Rheumatoid Arthritis

4. How long does an autoimmune profile take?

   Results usually take approximately 3 business days to be available.

5. Do I need to visit a doctor?

   No doctor visit needed.

6. How do I get my results?

   You get your results via email as soon as they are available.

7. Does my lab prescription expire?

   Your lab prescription never expires.*