Question 1

What is Panniculitis?

Accepted Answer

Panniculitis is a rare inflammatory condition that affects the subcutaneous fat layer beneath the skin, causing painful nodules and swelling. It is caused by Alpha-1-Antitrypsin deficiency, an enzyme deficiency that leads to uncontrolled inflammation in fatty tissues. The Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Quantitative test is the most important test for diagnosis because it identifies the underlying enzyme deficiency.

Question 2

What causes panniculitis?

Accepted Answer

Panniculitis is caused by Alpha-1-Antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic condition where your body does not produce enough of the protective enzyme that controls inflammation. When Alpha-1-Antitrypsin levels are too low, inflammatory enzymes attack the subcutaneous fat layer beneath your skin, creating painful nodules and swelling. Other triggers can include autoimmune diseases, infections, medications, and physical trauma to fatty tissue, but enzyme deficiency is the primary underlying cause.

Question 3

What is the best test for panniculitis?

Accepted Answer

The Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Quantitative test is the most important test for panniculitis because it measures the protective enzyme that prevents inflammation in your fatty tissue. Low levels of Alpha-1-Antitrypsin directly contribute to the inflammatory damage that causes panniculitis nodules. This blood test identifies whether enzyme deficiency is the root cause of your symptoms, which is essential for determining the right treatment approach. While panniculitis is primarily diagnosed through physical examination and sometimes tissue biopsy, the Alpha-1-Antitrypsin test reveals the underlying biochemical problem driving the inflammation.

Question 4

When should I get tested for panniculitis?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you develop painful, tender lumps or nodules under your skin, especially on your legs, thighs, or buttocks. Get tested if these nodules are accompanied by redness, warmth, or skin discoloration that does not improve with time. You should also consider testing if you have a family history of Alpha-1-Antitrypsin deficiency or if you have unexplained inflammation in your fatty tissue along with other symptoms like fever or fatigue. Early testing helps identify enzyme deficiencies before they cause more extensive tissue damage.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of panniculitis?

Accepted Answer

Panniculitis symptoms include painful, tender nodules or lumps beneath the skin that you can feel when you touch the area. You might notice red or purple discoloration on the skin surface above the inflamed fat tissue. The affected areas often feel warm to the touch and may be accompanied by fever, fatigue, and joint pain. These nodules most commonly appear on the legs, thighs, arms, and buttocks, and can range from small bumps to larger masses several centimeters in size.

Question 6

Who is at risk for panniculitis?

Accepted Answer

People with Alpha-1-Antitrypsin deficiency have the highest risk for developing panniculitis due to their lack of protective enzymes. Those with autoimmune diseases like lupus or inflammatory bowel disease face increased risk because their immune systems can mistakenly attack fatty tissue. People taking certain medications, those with pancreatic disease, and individuals who have experienced significant trauma or cold injury to fatty tissue are also at higher risk. Women are slightly more likely to develop panniculitis than men, and it can occur at any age.

Question 7

What happens if panniculitis is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated panniculitis can lead to permanent damage to the subcutaneous fat layer, resulting in scarring and depressions in the skin where fat tissue has been destroyed. The ongoing inflammation can spread to larger areas of fatty tissue and become chronic, causing persistent pain and reduced mobility. In severe cases, the nodules can break down and form ulcers that are difficult to heal. If panniculitis is caused by Alpha-1-Antitrypsin deficiency, the underlying enzyme problem can also affect other organs, particularly the lungs and liver, leading to serious complications over time.

Question 8

Can panniculitis be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Panniculitis cannot be directly diagnosed with a blood test alone, as diagnosis requires clinical examination of the nodules and often a skin biopsy to examine the inflamed fat tissue. However, blood tests like the Alpha-1-Antitrypsin Quantitative test are essential for identifying the underlying cause of panniculitis. These tests reveal enzyme deficiencies, autoimmune markers, or inflammatory indicators that explain why the fat inflammation is occurring. Blood work supports the diagnosis and guides treatment by pinpointing the root biochemical problem.

Question 9

How is panniculitis treated?

Accepted Answer

Panniculitis treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and addressing the underlying cause. Anti-inflammatory medications like NSAIDs or corticosteroids help control pain and swelling in the affected fatty tissue. If Alpha-1-Antitrypsin deficiency is identified, enzyme replacement therapy may be recommended to prevent further damage. For autoimmune-related panniculitis, immunosuppressive drugs can help calm the immune response. Your doctor may also recommend rest, leg elevation, and compression garments to reduce inflammation, while treating any infections or stopping medications that might be triggering the condition.

Question 10

How can I prevent panniculitis?

Accepted Answer

Preventing panniculitis involves managing underlying conditions that increase your risk, particularly if you know you have Alpha-1-Antitrypsin deficiency or autoimmune disease. Protect your fatty tissue from trauma, extreme cold, and prolonged pressure that can trigger inflammation. Work with your doctor to monitor enzyme levels and inflammatory markers through regular blood testing if you are at high risk. Maintain a healthy immune system through proper nutrition, stress management, and avoiding smoking, which can worsen inflammation. If you take medications known to cause panniculitis, discuss alternatives with your healthcare provider.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with panniculitis?

Accepted Answer

Natural remedies that may help manage panniculitis symptoms include applying cool compresses to reduce pain and swelling in the affected areas. Elevating your legs when resting can improve circulation and reduce inflammation in lower extremity nodules. Anti-inflammatory foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like fish and flaxseed, may help support your body's natural healing processes. Gentle movement and avoiding prolonged standing can prevent additional stress on inflamed fatty tissue. However, natural remedies should complement, not replace, medical treatment, especially when enzyme deficiencies are involved.

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:
            
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
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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.
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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.
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Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

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Panniculitis Blood Test

What is Panniculitis?

What causes panniculitis?

What is the best test for panniculitis?

When should I get tested for panniculitis?

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