Antinuclear Antibodies Test

What is the antinuclear antibodies test?

The antinuclear antibodies (ANA) test is done to check your immune system. It is done to see if your body's immune system has made antibodies that are attacking your body's own cells. Antibodies are the chemicals your body makes to fight infections, such as the flu and measles. If you have an autoimmune disease, the body also makes antibodies that attack your normal, healthy tissues, for example, skin, blood vessels, or joints.

Another name for this blood test is FANA (fluorescent antinuclear antibodies) screen.

Why is this test done?

This test can help confirm a diagnosis when you have symptoms of an autoimmune disease. It is done to help diagnose systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE, or lupus), as well as the type of lupus that is caused by drugs. This test may also be done to see how well treatment for lupus is working.

How do I prepare for this test?

No special preparation is needed for this test.

How is the test done?

A small amount of blood is taken from your arm with a needle. The blood is collected in tubes and sent to a lab.

Having this test will take just a few minutes.

How will I get the test result?

Ask your healthcare provider when and how you will get the result of your test.

What does the test result mean?

The result of this test alone is not very helpful. If your test result is positive, you may have an autoimmune disease such as lupus. However, many people who do not have an autoimmune disease have a positive test result because they normally have a small amount of antinuclear antibodies in their blood. It is also possible to have a negative result even though you do have an autoimmune disease.

To make a diagnosis, your healthcare provider usually needs to consider the ANA test results along with your medical history, exam, other lab tests, and your symptoms over time. Many autoimmune diseases, especially lupus, can cause different symptoms over a long period of time (months or years). So, for example, you may not realize that the severe headaches you had months ago are related to the joint pains you are now having. It can take months or years to diagnose some autoimmune diseases.

What if my test result is not normal?

Test results are only one part of a larger picture that takes into account your medical history and current health. Sometimes a test needs to be repeated to check the first result. Talk to your healthcare provider about your result and ask questions.

If your test result is abnormal, ask your healthcare provider:

• what your test means
• if you need more tests
• when you need to be tested again