Lupus is characterized by abnormalities in many laboratory tests. Lupus is difficult to diagnose because its symptoms so closely resemble those of other diseases. A doctor will first rule out other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, infections, and cancer.
The most used lupus diagnostic is blood testing for anti-DNA antibodies, which shows whether the patient has antibodies to the normal genetic material in certain cells.
At present, there is no cure for lupus. However, the symptoms of lupus can be controlled with appropriate treatment, and most people with the disease can lead active, healthy lives. Lupus is characterized by periods of illness, called flares, and periods of wellness, or remission. Understanding how to prevent flares and how to treat them when they do occur helps people with lupus maintain better health. Intense research is underway and scientists funded by the NIH are continuing to make great strides in understanding the disease, which ultimately may lead to a cure.
For milder cases of lupus, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are prescribed to relieve joint pain. Also, a short course of corticosteroids reduces inflammation and fever; a course is recommended for flare-ups. Skin rashes can be treated with over-the-counter corticosteroid creams.
