Autoimmune

There are more than 80 types of autoimmune diseases targeting various parts of the body, making diagnosis a challenge. According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, more than 24 million people in the United States are impacted by an autoimmune disease, with an additional eight million people having auto-antibodies indicating an increased risk of developing one.

Autoimmune testing focuses on measuring the presence of certain antibodies which target the body’s own cells resulting in conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks itself. 

Some of the more commonly known autoimmune conditions include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, scleroderma, Sjorgren’s syndrome, lupus, celia, and type diabetes. Diagnosis requires physical examination, a medical history of symptoms, comprehensive laboratory blood testing, testing for gut microbiome and functioning, and autoimmune testing for various antibodies.

Depending on the autoimmune disorder suspected, additional tests such as x-rays, biopsies, MRI scans, and CT scans may be necessary. People with autoimmune diseases commonly experience fatigue, joint pain and swelling, skin problems, abdominal pain and digestive issues, fever, and swollen glands.

What do autoimmune tests measure?

Comprehensive autoimmune testing panels evaluate blood for specific autoantibodies and inflammatory markers.

Some of the tests in this category include:

• Access Medical Labs' ANA Screen: A blood sample is analyzed to detect the presence of autoantibodies. A positive result often suggests that the body is likely attacking its own cells, and additional more specific autoimmune testing is needed. A positive result can sometimes occur in the absence of an autoimmune disease.
• Access Medical Labs' Rheumatoid Factor: The amount of rheumatoid factor antibody is measured in a blood sample. High levels indicate potential for rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune diseases and conditions linked to rheumatoid factors. Further testing is necessary for diagnosis.