Lab Tests for Lupus Monitoring
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can affect virtually any organ system, including your joints, skin, kidneys, and blood. Ongoing lab monitoring is critical for tracking disease activity, catching flares early, and preventing organ damage — especially kidney involvement. Key tests include ANA as the screening antibody, anti-dsDNA antibodies and complement C3 and C4, which rheumatologists often track together for disease activity, inflammatory markers, and renal function panels for kidney monitoring. JustLabs lets you order lupus monitoring labs online at transparent prices between rheumatology appointments, no doctor visit required.
Recommended Tests
$63 + $18 order fee · $81 all-in
The 5 tests ordered separately: $67 (save $4)
Includes 3 of the 9 recommended tests below (not included: Anti-dsDNA, C3, C4, ESR, Kidney Panel, CMP), plus 2 more.
All 9 recommended tests
$108 + one $18 order fee = $126 all-in
Understanding Your Results
| Test | Normal Range | Low Means | High Means |
|---|---|---|---|
| ANA | Negative (<1:40) | SLE less likely (but not ruled out) | Positive in 95%+ of lupus patients |
| Anti-dsDNA | ≤4 IU/mL (negative) | Negative — does not rule out lupus | ≥10 IU/mL positive — strongly associated with active lupus |
| Complement C3 | M: 82–185; F: 83–193 mg/dL | Complement being used up — possible active lupus or kidney involvement | Nonspecific; can rise with inflammation |
| Complement C4 | M: 15–53; F: 15–57 mg/dL | Complement being used up — possible active lupus or kidney involvement | Nonspecific; can rise with inflammation |
| hs-CRP | <1.0 mg/L | Low systemic inflammation | Active inflammation — possible flare |
| Sed Rate (ESR) | M: 0–22; F: 0–29 mm/hr | Minimal inflammation | Elevated inflammation — track with CRP |
| Creatinine (Renal) | 0.6–1.2 mg/dL | Normal kidney function | Possible kidney involvement (lupus nephritis) |
How to Order
Order Online
Select your tests and pay securely. A licensed physician authorizes your order.
Visit Quest Diagnostics
Walk into any of 2,200+ Quest locations nationwide. No appointment needed.
Get Results
Results available in your account within 1-2 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Conditions
Related Articles
CRP, sed rate, and ANA — which inflammation markers to test and what they reveal.
What a positive rheumatoid factor means and when seronegative RA is still possible.
Key antibody and liver function tests used to diagnose autoimmune hepatitis.
Content reviewed for accuracy by the JustLabs editorial team.