What is commonly observed in the Complete Blood Count (CBC) of a patient with SLE?

In patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), thrombocytopenia, which is a decrease in platelet count, is commonly observed in the Complete Blood Count (CBC). This condition occurs due to several mechanisms, including immune-mediated destruction of platelets and the effects of the disease process itself, which can lead to bone marrow suppression or involvement.

Thrombocytopenia is an important laboratory finding in lupus patients because it can help in monitoring disease activity and is associated with complications such as increased bleeding risk. This finding is particularly relevant as it reflects the autoimmune nature of SLE, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells.

Other potential findings in a CBC of an SLE patient can include anemia and leukopenia, but the presence of thrombocytopenia is distinctly highlighted in practice due to its significant implications in disease management.