Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA), Serum
Use
Antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) are detectable in individuals with various autoimmune diseases, particularly systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases, also known as connective tissue diseases. This test evaluates patients at risk for ANA-associated systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Sjogren syndrome (SjS), and mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD). ANAs are common in systemic autoimmune diseases, making this a useful screening test for associated conditions.
Special Instructions
If a connective tissue disorder is suspected, consider performing the Connective Tissue Disease Cascade test. For suspicion of autoimmune liver disease, refer to the Autoimmune Liver Disease Panel.
Limitations
Weakly positive ANA ELISA results may be false positives and may not strongly indicate systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease (SARD). Negative results using ELISA do not rule out other connective tissue diseases such as systemic sclerosis and inflammatory myopathies, where ANA IFA may be more effective. It's essential to confirm weakly positive ANA results with additional testing for more definitive autoantibody detection. Moreover, ANAs may also be detected after viral illnesses, chronic infections, or due to certain medications, which can complicate interpretations.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 94875-2
- 94875-2
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis and gross lipemia
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 21 days |
| Frozen | 21 days |