A patient is admitted to the hospital with signs and symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Which test would confirm the diagnosis?

Explanation

• The antinuclear antibody test is highly sensitive to SLE, but it is only diagnostic when clinical features are present

• A CBC is ordered to detect anemia and thrombocytopenia, which can be caused by SLE, but it is not diagnostic for the disease

• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate is a non-specific measure of inflammation in the body. It is used to help diagnose SLE, rheumatoid arthritis, and Kawasaki's disease. It may be used to help diagnose SLE, but it is not the main diagnostic test

• Hepatobiliary scan is used to evaluate the function of the gallbladder

Visit our website for other NCLEX topics now!