ANA by IFA, Reflex to Titer and Pattern
Also known as: ANA, IFA, ANA-Hep2
Use
Detect antibodies to nuclear antigens
Special Instructions
For patients especially the elderly, low titer ANA may not indicate significant disease. The patterns of nuclear fluorescence can often guide further testing, and this test is one among others, such as Anticardiolipin or Anti-dsDNA, to differentially diagnose autoimmune conditions. The test is reflexive, employing indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) methodology.
Limitations
Fifty percent of individuals over 80 years have low titer ANA, possibly confounding results. Medications can induce lupoid conditions. The titer can decrease after stopping medication. The presence of antibodies can interfere with detection, and low titers might merely suggest rheumatoid arthritis or other conditions without significant disease.
Methodology
Immunoassay (IHC)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 42254-3
- 42254-3
- 20398-4
- 20399-2
- 20401-6
- 5077-3
- 53003-0
- 54006-2
- 54155-7
- 53998-1
- 53006-3
- 53993-2
- 8251-1
Result Turnaround Time
2-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
Red-top tube or gel-barrier tube
Storage Instructions
Room temperature
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis; lipemia; gross bacterial contamination
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 7 days |
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 7 days |