What is the antinuclear antibodies test?
The antinuclear antibodies (ANA) test is done to check your
immune system. It measures whether your body's immune
system has made antibodies that are attacking your body's
own cells.
Another name for this blood test is FANA (fluorescent
antinuclear antibodies) screen.
Why is this test done?
This test is done to help diagnose systemic lupus
erythematosus (SLE, or lupus), as well as lupus that is
caused by drugs and certain other autoimmune diseases.
Lupus is one of several diseases that may cause arthritis
(joint inflammation). This test can help confirm a
diagnosis when you have symptoms of an autoimmune disease.
It 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 of your time.
There is no risk of getting AIDS, hepatitis, or any other
blood-borne disease from this test.
How will I get the test result?
Ask your heath care 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 health care provider usually needs to
interpret ANA test results with your symptoms, your exam,
and other lab tests.
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 health care provider about your result
and ask questions.
If your test result is abnormal, ask your health care
provider:
- if you need more tests
- when you need to be tested again.
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information is intended to inform and educate and is not a
replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.
Copyright © 2005 McKesson Corporation and/or one of its subsidiaries. All Rights Reserved.
This
information is approved and/or reviewed by U-M Health System providers
but it is not a tool for self-diagnosis or a substitute for medical
treatment. You should speak to your physician or make
an appointment to be seen if you have questions or concerns about
this information or your medical condition.