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Diagnosing Systemic Sclerosis: What Tests to Expect
Published: Apr 24, 2024
Diagnosing systemic sclerosis can be complex, often requiring a combination of physical exams, blood tests, and imaging studies. Understanding what to expect can help ease the process.
Physical Examination: The First Step
Your doctor will start with a thorough physical exam, looking for skin changes, especially on your hands and face. They'll check for Raynaud's phenomenon and look at your fingernails under a microscope to examine tiny blood vessels. This is called nailfold capillaroscopy.
Blood Tests: Searching for Clues
Several blood tests are typically ordered. These include tests for antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and specific antibodies associated with systemic sclerosis, like anti-Scl-70 and anticentromere antibodies. Other tests may check for inflammation, muscle damage, or organ function.
Imaging and Organ Function Tests
Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may order additional tests. These might include chest X-rays or CT scans to check your lungs, echocardiograms to assess your heart, or tests to evaluate your digestive system. Pulmonary function tests are often done to check how well your lungs are working.
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually not, but it may be done in some cases to rule out other conditions.
It can vary, sometimes taking weeks or months to confirm.
Most are painless, though blood draws may cause brief discomfort.
Yes, some tests may be repeated to monitor disease progression over time.
Putting the Pieces Together
While the diagnostic process can seem overwhelming, each test provides valuable information to guide your care.
References
- van den Hoogen F, Khanna D, Fransen J, et al. 2013 classification criteria for systemic sclerosis: An American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism collaborative initiative. Arthritis Rheum 2013; 65:2737.
- Koenig M, Joyal F, Fritzler MJ, et al. Autoantibodies and microvascular damage are independent predictive factors for the progression of Raynaud's phenomenon to systemic sclerosis: a twenty-year prospective study of 586 patients, with validation of proposed criteria for early systemic sclerosis. Arthritis Rheum 2008; 58:3902.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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