Which combination of laboratory findings is commonly expected in systemic lupus erythematosus?

• A. Elevated ESR, positive ANA, anemia, mild leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia
• B. Normal ESR, negative ANA, leukocytosis
• C. Low ESR, negative ANA, polycythemia
• D. Elevated liver enzymes and high CK

Answer: (C)

Systemic lupus erythematosus classically causes autoimmune inflammation with widespread effects, so lab findings usually show evidence of inflammation, autoantibody presence, and blood cell suppression. An elevated ESR reflects ongoing inflammation, and a positive ANA is a common, sensitive marker for lupus. Anemia often accompanies lupus, whether from chronic inflammation or autoimmune destruction of red blood cells. Mild leukopenia and thrombocytopenia occur due to immune-mediated destruction of white cells and platelets. Together, these findings—inflammation, ANA positivity, and cytopenias—fit the typical lupus pattern.

Choices with normal ESR or negative ANA don’t align with the common lupus picture, and leukocytosis or polycythemia would contrast with the common cytopenias seen in lupus. Elevated liver enzymes and CK aren’t defining features for lupus and don’t reflect its usual hematologic/inflammatory pattern.