Anti-nuclear Antibody Test
3,100 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
ANA
Purpose
The Anti-Nuclear Antibody (ANA) Test is a blood test used to detect the presence of antinuclear antibodies, autoantibodies that mistakenly target and attack the body’s cells. This test is primarily used in the diagnosis of autoimmune disorders such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren’s syndrome.
It works by analyzing a blood sample to see if these antibodies bind to components within the nucleus of cells. A positive result may indicate an ongoing autoimmune reaction.
The ANA test is often performed alongside other tests such as the Rheumatoid Factor (RF) test, Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and specific antibody panels (like anti-dsDNA and anti-Sm) to help narrow down the exact autoimmune condition and guide treatment decisions.
Patient Preparation
No special preparation needed
Samples
1 mL serum collected in a red-top tube or gel-barrier tube. Serum should be separated within 45 minutes of sample collection. Samples are stable when frozen for 14 days.
Reference Range
<1:80
Results Turnaround
2-4 days after receipt of samples.
Diseases / Diagnostic Indicators
A positive ANA test result, indicating high levels of antinuclear antibodies, may suggest the presence of an autoimmune condition. The most commonly associated disorder is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but elevated ANA levels can also occur in other autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, or Sjögren’s syndrome.
In some cases, viral infections, certain cancers, or even chronic inflammation may lead to a positive result. However, a positive ANA test alone does not confirm a diagnosis; it typically leads to further testing to identify the specific condition.
It’s also worth noting that some healthy individuals, especially women, may test positive without having any disease. Read this study for more information on ANA Testing.