Question 1

What is autoimmune diseases?

Accepted Answer

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs in the body. They are caused by the production of autoantibodies that target the body's own cells, leading to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Sjögren's syndrome. The IgG, IgA, Indirect Immunofluorescence test is the most important test for diagnosis because it detects the autoantibodies responsible for tissue damage.

Question 2

What causes autoimmune diseases?

Accepted Answer

Autoimmune diseases are caused by the immune system producing autoantibodies that mistakenly attack the body's own healthy tissues and organs. While the exact trigger varies by condition, genetic factors, environmental exposures, infections, and hormonal changes can all contribute to immune system dysfunction. In rheumatoid arthritis, autoantibodies attack joint tissues, while in lupus, they target multiple organs including the skin, kidneys, and heart.

Question 3

What is the best test for autoimmune diseases?

Accepted Answer

The IgG, IgA, Indirect Immunofluorescence test is the most important test for autoimmune diseases because it detects autoantibodies commonly associated with lupus, Sjögren's syndrome, and rheumatoid arthritis. This test uses indirect immunofluorescence to identify antibodies attacking your own tissues, while elevated IgG levels indicate an overactive immune response. The Lymphocyte Subset Panel 4 (CD4:CD8 Ratio Profile) is also essential as it measures the ratio of CD4 to CD8 immune cells, which is often elevated in autoimmune conditions due to excess CD4 cells contributing to tissue damage.

Question 4

When should I get tested for autoimmune diseases?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent joint pain and stiffness, unexplained fatigue that doesn't improve with rest, recurring fevers without infection, skin rashes that come and go, or swelling in multiple joints. Testing is especially important if you have a family history of autoimmune diseases or if your symptoms have lasted more than six weeks and affect your daily activities. Early detection through blood tests can help prevent serious organ damage and improve treatment outcomes.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of autoimmune diseases?

Accepted Answer

Autoimmune disease symptoms vary depending on which organs are affected but commonly include chronic fatigue, joint pain and swelling, muscle aches, recurring low-grade fevers, and skin rashes or sensitivity. You might notice brain fog, difficulty concentrating, unexplained weight changes, digestive issues, or numbness and tingling in your hands and feet. Many people experience flare-ups where symptoms worsen followed by periods of remission, making the pattern unpredictable and challenging to manage without proper diagnosis.

Question 6

Who is at risk for autoimmune diseases?

Accepted Answer

Women are at significantly higher risk for autoimmune diseases, accounting for nearly 80% of cases, with the highest risk during childbearing years. You face increased risk if you have family members with autoimmune conditions, certain ethnic backgrounds (particularly African American, Hispanic, or Native American descent), or have been exposed to specific infections or environmental toxins. People with one autoimmune disease are also more likely to develop additional autoimmune conditions over time.

Question 7

What happens if autoimmune diseases are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated autoimmune diseases can cause permanent organ damage and life-threatening complications. In rheumatoid arthritis, ongoing joint inflammation leads to irreversible bone erosion and deformity, while untreated lupus can cause kidney failure, heart disease, and stroke. Autoimmune conditions can also trigger secondary problems like increased infection risk, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and even certain cancers. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent these serious complications and maintain quality of life.

Question 8

Can autoimmune diseases be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Autoimmune diseases can be diagnosed through specialized blood tests that detect autoantibodies, measure immune cell populations, and identify inflammation markers. The IgG, IgA, Indirect Immunofluorescence test detects autoantibodies attacking your tissues, while the CD4:CD8 Ratio Profile measures immune cell imbalances characteristic of autoimmune conditions. Blood tests also measure inflammation markers like AST levels and can track disease activity over time, though diagnosis typically requires multiple tests combined with clinical evaluation of your symptoms.

Question 9

How are autoimmune diseases treated?

Accepted Answer

Autoimmune diseases are treated with medications that suppress the overactive immune response and reduce inflammation. Your doctor may prescribe corticosteroids to control acute flares, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to slow disease progression, or biologic therapies that target specific immune system components. Treatment also includes managing symptoms with pain relievers, physical therapy to maintain joint function, and lifestyle modifications like stress reduction, regular exercise, and an anti-inflammatory diet to support overall health.

Question 10

How can I prevent autoimmune diseases?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot completely prevent autoimmune diseases if you have genetic risk factors, you can reduce your risk by avoiding known triggers like smoking, excessive sun exposure, and certain medications. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vegetables, managing stress through meditation or yoga, and getting adequate sleep all support immune system balance. Early detection through blood testing when symptoms first appear can help prevent progression and serious complications.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with autoimmune diseases?

Accepted Answer

Natural approaches that help manage autoimmune disease symptoms include following an anti-inflammatory diet with fatty fish, leafy greens, berries, and turmeric while avoiding processed foods and excess sugar. Omega-3 supplements, vitamin D, and probiotics support immune system regulation, though you should consult your doctor before starting any supplements. Regular moderate exercise, stress management techniques like meditation or deep breathing, adequate sleep, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol can all help reduce inflammation and improve symptom control alongside medical treatment.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Autoimmune Disease Blood Test

What is Autoimmune diseases?

What causes autoimmune diseases?

What is the best test for autoimmune diseases?

When should I get tested for autoimmune diseases?

References

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