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Anacentrosomaltitrserif

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This blood test detects specific antibodies that target the centrosome (cell center) and nucleus, helping doctors diagnose certain autoimmune diseases.

Quick summary

{"The test identifies antibodies that attack parts of your own cells","It helps diagnose primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and other autoimmune conditions","Results are reported as a titer (dilution ratio) showing antibody strength","A positive result suggests an autoimmune disease but requires clinical interpretation"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
53993-2
Short code
ANA centrosomal Titr Ser IF
Synonyms
ANA centrosomal Titr Ser IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
7
Ref high
56
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302773008
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The centrosomal nuclear antibody test is a blood test that looks for special proteins (antibodies) in your blood. These antibodies target parts of your cells called the centrosome and nucleus. The centrosome helps organize the cell's framework, while the nucleus contains the cell's genetic material. When your immune system mistakenly makes antibodies against your own cell structures, it can signal an autoimmune disease.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare provider will draw a small blood sample from your arm using a needle. This sample is then sent to a laboratory where technicians use a technique called immunofluorescence. In this method, your blood is mixed with special markers that glow under a microscope. If antibodies are present, they bind to these markers and become visible, allowing lab staff to see the pattern and measure the amount (titer) of antibodies.

What do the results mean?

Results are reported as a titer, such as 1:40 or 1:160. The second number represents how many times the blood sample was diluted before antibodies could still be detected. Higher titers (like 1:160) generally indicate stronger antibody presence. A positive result (antibodies detected) suggests your immune system may be attacking your own cells, which is characteristic of autoimmune diseases. However, the result alone does not diagnose a specific condition—your doctor will consider it along with your symptoms and other test results.

Do I need to prepare for the test?

No special preparation is needed. You can eat and drink normally before the test. However, tell your doctor about any medications, supplements, or health conditions you have, as these may affect results. The test simply requires a routine blood draw, which takes only a few minutes.

Reference range

Adult males: 7-56 U/L; Adult females: 7-43 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is this test painful?
The test involves a standard blood draw. You may feel a brief pinch or mild discomfort when the needle enters your arm, but this usually lasts only a moment. Some people may experience slight bruising afterward.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results or discuss them at your next appointment.
What if my result is positive?
A positive result indicates the presence of centrosomal nuclear antibodies, which suggests an autoimmune condition may be present. However, this does not confirm a specific diagnosis on its own. Your doctor will interpret the result together with your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to determine the appropriate next steps.
Can this test diagnose primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) by itself?
No single test diagnoses PBC. The centrosomal nuclear antibody test is one of several tests used to help diagnose PBC, along with liver function tests, alkaline phosphatase, and sometimes a liver biopsy. Your doctor considers all these results together to make a diagnosis.
Do I need this test repeated?
Your doctor will determine if repeat testing is needed. Sometimes, antibody levels are tracked over time to monitor disease progression or response to treatment. However, antibody titers do not always correlate directly with disease severity.
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy