Skip to content

Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) IgG by Immunofluorescence — Titer

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This blood test looks for antinuclear antibodies that can be associated with autoimmune conditions such as lupus and other connective tissue diseases.

Quick summary

["A positive ANA can support evaluation for an autoimmune disease, but it does not confirm a diagnosis by itself."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24091-1
Short code
A-NAG Fib-cCnt
Synonyms
A-NAG Fib-cCnt
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86038
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 antinuclear antibody (ANA) test checks a blood sample for antibodies that react with the nuclei of cells. It is commonly performed using an immunofluorescence method, and the laboratory may report an antibody titer and the pattern of staining.

Why might I need this test?

An ANA test may be ordered when symptoms suggest an autoimmune condition, including joint pain, rash, fatigue, fever, or changes in skin or blood cells. It is often used alongside the medical history, physical examination, and other laboratory tests.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is exposed to cells in the laboratory, and any ANA IgG antibodies are detected using immunofluorescence. The report may include the titer, which indicates the degree of antibody reactivity, and a staining pattern that can help guide further evaluation.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required, and fasting is generally unnecessary. Tell your clinician and laboratory if you are taking medicines that may affect autoimmune test results, and follow any instructions provided with the test order.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

ANA IgG Immunofluorescence Titer

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive ANA mean I have lupus?
No. A positive ANA is not specific for lupus and can occur with several conditions or in healthy people. Your clinician will interpret it with your symptoms, examination, and other tests.
What does the ANA titer mean?
The titer shows how strongly the sample reacted during laboratory testing. A result with more reactivity may be more supportive of an autoimmune condition, but the titer alone cannot establish a diagnosis.
Can medicines affect the ANA result?
Some medicines can cause ANA antibodies or symptoms resembling an autoimmune condition. Do not stop prescribed medicines without discussing them with your clinician.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy