LE Cell Phenomenon Test

Lupus erythematosus (LE) is a non-specific immune disorder. It is caused by antibodies which are defense proteins that attack the own tissue of the bodies instead of foreign invaders. LE affects a wide range of tissues including skin, kidney, heart, brain, lungs, and joints. An LE cells are either a macrophage or neutrophil which has engulfed degraded nuclear material from another cell. LE cell detection is made through microscopic examination. Flow cytometric analysis is a specialized testing which also helps in detecting LE cell in an automated manner. Le cell blood test is a screening test for lupus which detects lupus cells. Adults are most commonly affected by lupus.

Preparation: As such no special preparation is required before LE cell test. You do not need to fast or restrict the consumption of food and drinks before the test. You need to inform the doctor regarding the underlying medication or allergies before undergoing the test. You also need to inform the doctor regarding your medical history. You need to carry a prescription from your doctor who has ordered for the test. You will be provided with specific instruction by the doctor depending on your condition.

Uses: As mentioned above, LE cell phenomenon test is helpful in detecting lupus. A positive value for the LE cell blood test is interpreted as the detection of lupus cells. The LE cell test is usually performed when severe symptoms of fever, rash, fatigue, light sensitivity or joint pain are experienced by the patient. In the past, the test was most commonly used to diagnose systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) but now SLE is diagnosed by more specific and sensitive test such as anti-nuclear antibody blood test.

The LE cell blood test is conducted by collecting a blood sample from the patient. The technician or the nurse will wrap an elastic band around the upper arm. The area from where the blood will be collected is cleaned with an alcohol pad. The technician or the nurse will then inject a needle into the vein of the arm. The required amount of blood sample is collected in a tube which is attached to the needle. The needle and the band are removed after collecting an ample amount of sample. The collected sample is sealed and is sent to the laboratory for examination. A small pressure is applied to the needle site to stop the bleeding.