[Nutty]

During my last visit in the hospital the doctor was going through all my blood tests for Lupus and I realize I don't have a clue about any of them. I know they tested for inflammation and blockers and I don't know what else. I think it's time I get a handle on it. Does anyone have information in this regard?

I'm in Canada if that makes a difference. I know I am diabetic and the blood sugar test is measured differently in Canada than the United States, so I don't know if this holds true for some of the Lupus tests.

Thanks.

Nutty

 

[Lily]

Hi Nutty,

Each lab will have their own reference range but they usually vary only slightly with most of the Lupus tests. It's a good idea to actually get a copy of the test results. That way you can see what the normal ranges are which is every bit as important as knowing what your result was.

A good place for understanding the tests is http://www.labtestsonline.org/http://www.labtestsonline if you know what the particular test name is, but there are no reference ranges there, just what high and low values may mean. Often slightly above or slightly below has little significance and it helps to talk to your doctor about what results mean in your particular circumstances too.

There are other sites pinned in a post at the top of this forum which will also help you understand more about particular tests and why they are ordered etc.

Hope this helps,

love
Lily