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A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Oxford, MS
September 5, 2025
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A MyLupusTeam Member

There are different factors. Lupus mimics other diseases like MS, often leading to misdiagnosis. As AI mentioned, there are several lab tests. The AVISE test is expensive, but worth requesting if it hasn't been ordered. Also, there is no standard protocol for diagnosis except the list of 11 criteria for lupus. Out of all the rheumatologists I have had, only one went through the list with me at every visit. Each doctor has their own idea of what lupus looks like on a first visit. I just happened to meet a knowledgeable dermatologist who suspected SLE and that helped me in some ways. It is best to seek a rheumatologist who has a special interest in lupus. This means that they may have specifically studied under a lupus specialist or researcher and stays up-to-date on current research and medications.
I am including a list of the 11 criteria for lupus. Some are the telltale signs for our flares as well. And information about the AVISE test.

What Are the 11 Criteria for Lupus? https://share.google/DpInfcFrV0zWLpXUm

AVISE Lupus - Advanced Testing for Lupus Diagnosis https://share.google/CBUPxwxKec20sf5WU

What Are the 11 Criteria for Lupus?
What Are the 11 Criteria for Lupus?
AVISE Lupus - Advanced Testing for Lupus Diagnosis
AVISE Lupus - Advanced Testing for Lupus Diagnosis
September 6, 2025 (edited)
MyLupusTeam

Getting diagnosed with lupus takes about 6 years on average from when symptoms first appear. This happens because lupus can be tricky to identify - its symptoms often look like other conditions, making it challenging for doctors to recognize the pattern. This is especially true since symptoms can vary significantly from Show Full Answer

Getting diagnosed with lupus takes about 6 years on average from when symptoms first appear. This happens because lupus can be tricky to identify - its symptoms often look like other conditions, making it challenging for doctors to recognize the pattern. This is especially true since symptoms can vary significantly from person to person.

The diagnosis process is particularly challenging for:
• Women and people of color (who are most affected by lupus)
• People who develop lupus later in life
• Those with mild symptoms To diagnose lupus, doctors typically need to perform multiple tests including:
• Blood tests to check immune function
• Urine tests
• ANA tests for specific protein markers
• Possible biopsies
• Various imaging tests

Since no single test can definitively diagnose lupus, healthcare providers must piece together evidence from symptoms, test results, and medical history over time. This comprehensive approach, while thorough, contributes to the lengthy diagnosis timeline.

September 5, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

Lack of education

September 5, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

Thanks for the information!

September 6, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

You don’t have a diagnosis?

September 5, 2025

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