What tests are used in diagnosing HLH? HLH can only be diagnosed with the proper blood tests. Laboratory evaluations can help with the diagnosis of HLH. At Cincinnati Children’s, we perform a CBC to look for cytopenias (nearly universal), and a routine liver panel to screen for hepatitis. We measure blood levels of ferritin (usually extremely elevated), soluble IL-2 receptor (elevated), soluble CD163 (elevated), fibrinogen (decreased) and triglycerides (elevated). Cerebrospinal fluid analysis may show evidence of pleocytosis, hemophagocytosis and elevated protein. Brain MRI may show evidence of HLH. Bone marrow aspirates and biopsies may show evidence of hemophagocytosis (macrophage engulfment of other cells). We perform laboratory, radiologic and pathologic studies to evaluate for associated infections or malignancies.
Posted on: Thu, 13 Nov 2014 13:50:00 +0000
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