What is ANA (anti-nuclear antibody) test? The ANA test is a blood test that checks for antinuclear antibodies in the blood. Antibodies are proteins made by the immune system to fight foreign substances such as viruses and bacteria. However, antinuclear antibodies attack their own healthy cells instead. It is called "anti-nuclear" because it targets the nucleus (middle) of the cell. It is normal to have some antinuclear antibodies in the blood. However, high numbers may be a sign of an autoimmune disease. When you have an autoimmune disease, your immune system mistakenly attacks cells in your organs and tissues. These disorders can cause serious health problems.
Also known as: antinuclear antibody panel, fluorescent antinuclear antibody, FANA, ANA, ANA reflectance panel
what is it used for? The ANA test can help diagnose autoimmune diseases such as:
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most common type of lupus. Lupus is a chronic (long-term) disease that affects many parts of the body, including joints, skin, heart, lungs, blood vessels, kidneys, and brain. Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that primarily affects the joints, often causing pain and swelling in the wrists, hands, and feet. Scleroderma, a rare disease that affects the skin, blood vessels, and organs. Sjögren's syndrome, a rare condition that affects tears and saliva (saliva) and other parts of the body. Addison's disease, which affects the adrenal glands and causes fatigue and weakness. Autoimmune hepatitis that causes swelling of the liver. Why do you need the ANA test? If you have symptoms of an autoimmune disease, your doctor may order an ANA test. Symptoms vary depending on the part of the body affected. This includes:
heat
rashes, blisters, or skin color changes
Malaise
joint pain, stiffness, swelling
muscle pain
