What is the laboratory hallmark of SLE?
ANA: Greater than 98% to 99% of patients with SLE demonstrate elevated serum levels of ANA, which is considered to be the hallmark of the disease. This test, however, is not specific for SLE and only a small percentage (5%) of people with a positive ANA will actually develop SLE. Alternatively, a patient who is ANA-negative is unlikely to have or develop SLE.
