Fact 5: Complex Diagnosis
Navigating the diagnostic process for HLH is like solving a complex puzzle. The condition doesn’t present a straightforward, easy-to-recognize pattern of symptoms, which means doctors often have to look at the bigger picture and piece together different clues.
One of the main challenges in diagnosing HLH is its non-specific symptoms. HLH can present with a variety of symptoms, many of which are also seen in other diseases. This can make it difficult to pinpoint HLH as the cause.
However, there are eight established criteria for diagnosing HLH. These include clinical signs, such as fever and splenomegaly, and specific blood test results. These tests can show high levels of certain molecules in the blood that indicate an overactive immune response, as well as low counts of certain types of blood cells.
But diagnosing HLH isn’t as simple as checking off a list of symptoms. Often, doctors need to rule out other potential causes first. Plus, a person doesn’t need to meet all eight criteria to be diagnosed with HLH. This means a diagnosis often involves careful clinical judgment and expertise. (5)
