Laboratory Evaluation In Pediatric Autoimmune Diseases

Educational Gaps1. Pediatricians should recognize the complex assessment of pediatric autoimmune disease but feel comfortable with the initial evaluation of these diseases in children.2. Clinicians should have an increased awareness of antibody testing in pediatric autoimmune disease and an understanding of the implications of antibody positivity.Objectives After completing the article, the reader should be able to:1. Understand the diagnostic evaluation of pediatric autoimmune diseases.2. Order initial laboratory evaluations for children with suspected autoimmune disease.3. Explain what positive antinuclear antibody testing can indicate and what steps should be taken for further investigation when results are positive.