LE Cell Test

What is the LE Cell Test?

The lupus erythematosus (LE) cell test is (Systemic lupus erythematosus) SLE diagnostic test. SLE is a chronic autoimmune illness that causes the immune system to attack healthy cells.

The test outcome is affected by subjective interpretation and experimental factors. Antinuclear antibody (ANA) testing is more accurate than the LE cell test.

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What is the use of the LE Cells Test?

The LE cell test is used to identify SLE, an autoimmune illness. The test is used on both men and women. The test is advised when SLE symptoms are present, which include extreme tiredness, joint inflammation,joint pain, and butterfly rashes on the nose and cheeks.

What is the need for an LE Cells Test?

LE cell tests are typically used to diagnose autoimmune diseases, SLE, and chronic active hepatitis. It is advised when symptoms such as weariness, joint inflammation, or joint discomfort are present.

What happens during the LE Cells Test?

During the LE cell test, the blood sample is taken and then it is tested in the lab where the blood cells from the patient are ruptured, which leads to the release of nuclear material. Phagocytosis occurs when nuclear material is liberated and interacts with certain antibodies.

How to Interpret the LE Cells Test Results

A skilled healthcare practitioner should evaluate the findings of the LE cell test, and people should avoid self-diagnosis. A negative test is a normal range. If LE cells account for around 2-30% of the neutrophil cells in the smear, the test is termed positive.

A positive LE cell test can also be seen in patients with chronic hepatitis,rheumatoid arthritis, dermatomyositis,scleroderma, polyarteritis nodosa, acquired hemolytic anemia, Hodgkin's disease, and those using hydralazine or phenylbutazone.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the LE cell test?

The LE cell test is a test that detects a type of cell called a "LE cell" in a blood sample. LE cells are white blood cells that have engulfed and digested another type of cell called a "neutrophil." LE cells in the blood can indicate that the body's immune system is attacking its own tissues, which is a hallmark of SLE.

2. How is the LE cell test performed?

A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein in the arm and sent to a laboratory for analysis.

3. What does a positive LE cell test result mean?

A positive LE cell test result means LE cells were found in the blood sample. This can be an indication of SLE, but it is not a definitive diagnosis. Other tests and clinical evaluations are needed to confirm a diagnosis of SLE.

4. Is the LE cell test always reliable?

The LE cell test is not always reliable for diagnosing SLE. It may be negative in some people with SLE, and it may be positive in people without SLE. Therefore, other tests and clinical evaluations are needed to confirm a diagnosis of SLE. Additionally, the test is not commonly used anymore and has been replaced by more specific and sensitive tests.

5. Are there any risks associated with the LE cell test?

The LE cell test is a relatively simple blood test and is considered safe. However, like any blood test, there is a small risk of bleeding, infection, or bruising at the site where the needle was inserted. These risks are very low and are generally outweighed by the benefits of the test in diagnosing or monitoring SLE.

6. How often is the LE cell test used to diagnose SLE?

The LE cell test was commonly used in the past, but it is not used any more due to its limited sensitivity and specificity. Instead, other tests, such as the ANA test and anti-dsDNA antibody test, are typically used to diagnose SLE.

7. Can a person with a negative LE cell test still have SLE?

Yes, it is possible for a person with SLE to have a negative LE cell test result. This is because the LE cell test is not the standard for diagnosing SLE, and it may be negative in some people with the disease.

8. Can medications affect the results of the LE cell test?

Yes, certain medications can affect the results of the LE cell test. For example, some medications used to treat autoimmune diseases can cause LE cells to form, even in people who do not have SLE. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor about any medications you are taking before having the LE cell test or any other blood tests.

9. What is the cost of the LE cell test?

LE cell test costs around Rs. 400 approximately. However, the cost can differ from place to place.

10. Where can I get the LE cell test?

You can get an LE cell test at Medicover Hospitals.