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The LE prep test used in the diagnosis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) has relatively low specificity, and is insensitive.
The Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) test has essentially replaced the LE prep as the test of choice for diagnosis of systemic
immune-mediated disease, as it is fairly specific and more sensitive. A variety of conditions, including immune-mediated disease,
severe inflammatory disorders, and drug hypersensitivity, can cause low-grade positive results on the ANA test. As with all laboratory
testing, results should be correlated with clinical signs, physical exam, history, and other parameters to arrive at a correct diagnosis.
Effective immediately, Antech Diagnostics will discontinue the LE prep and will only offer the ANA test for the diagnosis of
SLE.
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