FULL LONDON Systemic Lupus Rheumatology Blood Test Profile

Marker for Polymyositis.

The percentage of white blood cells that are basophils. Basophils play a role in allergic reactions by releasing histamine and other inflammatory mediators.

A protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation. CRP rises rapidly during infection, injury, or inflammatory conditions. It's a general marker — elevated CRP signals inflammation but doesn't pinpoint the source.

The percentage of white blood cells that are eosinophils. Elevated eosinophil percentages are commonly associated with allergic reactions and parasitic infections.

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate — measures how quickly red blood cells settle to the bottom of a test tube. Faster settling indicates more inflammation. ESR is a non-specific marker used to monitor inflammatory conditions like arthritis and vasculitis.

The percentage of your blood volume occupied by red blood cells. It reflects the balance between red blood cell production and loss, helping diagnose anemia, dehydration, and polycythemia.

The iron-rich protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout your body and returning carbon dioxide to the lungs. Low haemoglobin is the primary marker for anemia and can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

The percentage of white blood cells that are lymphocytes, key players in adaptive immunity including antibody production and cell-mediated immune responses.

The average concentration of hemoglobin within each red blood cell. It helps differentiate types of anemia — low MCHC points to iron deficiency, while high MCHC can indicate spherocytosis.

The average amount of hemoglobin in each red blood cell. Low MCH indicates that red blood cells carry less oxygen than normal, commonly seen in iron-deficiency anemia.

The average size of your red blood cells. Small cells (microcytic) suggest iron deficiency, while large cells (macrocytic) may indicate vitamin B12 or folate deficiency. Normal-sized cells with low count suggest chronic disease.

The percentage of white blood cells that are monocytes. Monocytes are part of the innate immune system and develop into macrophages and dendritic cells in tissues.

The percentage of white blood cells that are neutrophils. Neutrophils are the most common WBC type and respond primarily to bacterial infections.

Measures the number of platelets, small cell fragments essential for blood clotting. Low platelets increase bleeding risk, while high platelets may increase clot risk. Important for monitoring clotting disorders and medication effects.

Measures the variation in size among your red blood cells. A high RDW means your red blood cells vary significantly in size, which can help distinguish between different types of anemia.

Autoantibody often elevated in inflammation, e.g., rheumatoid arthritis.