The Antinuclear antibody (ANA) looks at autoantibodies found in autoimmune diseases such as lupus. It is done for: joint pain, rash, unexplained inflammation.
General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.
Joint pain, rash, unexplained inflammation.
No fasting needed. Laboratory-specific; see the reference range on your report. High or positive may mean: Autoimmune disease possible; also positive in some healthy people. Low or negative may mean: Lupus unlikely. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.
Autoantibodies found in autoimmune diseases such as lupus.
Blood
Autoimmune disease possible; also positive in some healthy people.
Lupus unlikely.
Reference ranges vary by lab, age and sex — always use the range printed on your own report.
Consult a doctor to interpret results — a single test does not make a diagnosis.
Uses your location once to list the nearest facilities. Nothing is stored.
What does the Antinuclear antibody (ANA) measure?
Autoantibodies found in autoimmune diseases such as lupus.
Why is the Antinuclear antibody (ANA) done?
Joint pain, rash, unexplained inflammation.
Do I need to fast for the Antinuclear antibody (ANA)?
No fasting needed.
What does a high or positive Antinuclear antibody (ANA) mean?
Autoimmune disease possible; also positive in some healthy people.
What does a low or negative Antinuclear antibody (ANA) mean?
Lupus unlikely.
What is the normal range for the Antinuclear antibody (ANA)?
Laboratory-specific; see the reference range on your report.
Why is Antinuclear antibody (ANA) done?
Joint pain, rash, unexplained inflammation.
Do I need to prepare or fast for Antinuclear antibody (ANA)?
No fasting needed. Laboratory-specific; see the reference range on your report. High or positive may mean: Autoimmune disease possible; also positive in some healthy people. Low or negative may mean: Lupus unlikely. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.
SI text CC BY 4.0; decoder reference data (cited per range); LOINC codes free with attribution (notice included).
Sources: SI health summary (own words); MedlinePlus Lab Tests and CDC as references