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Laboratory testing in pediatric rheumatology

Jay Mehta1

  • 1Division of Pediatric Rheumatology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, NY 10467, USA. jmehta@montefiore.org

Pediatric Clinics of North America
|May 8, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Laboratory tests are crucial for diagnosing and monitoring pediatric rheumatic diseases. This review covers essential tests, including blood counts and autoantibodies, aiding pediatricians and rheumatologists.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Rheumatology
  • Clinical Laboratory Science

Background:

  • Laboratory evaluations are vital for managing pediatric rheumatic diseases.
  • Tests aid in screening, diagnosis, monitoring disease activity, and predicting prognosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the utility and interpretation of common laboratory tests in pediatric rheumatology.
  • To cover tests used by general pediatricians and pediatric rheumatology clinics.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on laboratory evaluations in pediatric rheumatic diseases.
  • Discussion of commonly ordered tests: complete blood count, acute phase reactants, autoantibodies, serum complement, urinalysis, streptococcal antibody tests, and genetic studies.

Main Results:

  • Laboratory tests play a key role in the diagnostic and management pathway for children with rheumatic conditions.
  • Interpretation of results guides treatment decisions and prognosis assessment.

Conclusions:

  • Comprehensive understanding of laboratory test interpretation is essential for effective pediatric rheumatology care.
  • These evaluations support evidence-based management strategies for pediatric rheumatic diseases.

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