Anti Nuclear Antibody, (ANA)

Description

The Anti-Nuclear Antibody (ANA) test is a widely used blood test that detects antibodies targeting components of the cell nucleus. It serves as a crucial screening tool for various autoimmune diseases, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but also for conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, systemic sclerosis, and mixed connective tissue disease. A positive ANA result indicates the presence of autoantibodies and suggests an increased likelihood of an autoimmune disorder. However, it’s important to note that ANA can be positive in healthy individuals or in non-autoimmune conditions, necessitating further specific antibody tests and clinical correlation. The pattern and titer of ANA can provide additional diagnostic clues. This test is often used as an initial step in the diagnostic workup for suspected autoimmune disorders.