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Anatitrser

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

A blood test that measures the level of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in your blood, used to help diagnose autoimmune disorders.

Quick summary

{"The test detects antibodies that attack your own cell nuclei","It helps diagnose conditions like lupus, Sjögren's syndrome, and scleroderma","Results are reported as a titer (dilution ratio) and pattern","A positive result does not always mean you have a disease","Your doctor will interpret results along with your symptoms"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
29953-7
Short code
ANA Titr Ser
Synonyms
ANA Titr Ser
Category
chemistry
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 Nuclear Antibody (ANA) test is a blood test that detects antinuclear antibodies in your serum. These are antibodies that your immune system produces by mistake, targeting the nuclei of your own cells. Normally, your immune system protects you from harmful invaders like viruses and bacteria. However, in autoimmune diseases, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed using techniques such as indirect immunofluorescence. The test reports results as a titer (for example, 1:40, 1:160, 1:640) and may also identify staining patterns that can suggest specific types of autoimmune diseases.

What do the results mean?

Results are typically reported as a titer (the highest dilution of blood that still shows positivity) and a pattern. A low titer (such as 1:40) may be seen in healthy individuals, especially older adults. A high titer (such as 1:160 or higher) is more likely to be associated with autoimmune disease. The pattern (such as homogeneous, speckled, nucleolar, or centromere) can provide additional clues about the type of condition. However, results must always be interpreted in context with your clinical symptoms and other test findings.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before this test?
No special preparation is typically required. You can eat and drink normally before the test. However, always follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider.
Is the test painful?
You may feel a brief sting or pinch when the needle is inserted to draw blood. The discomfort is usually minimal and goes away quickly. Some people may experience slight bruising at the puncture site.
Can medications affect my ANA results?
Yes, certain medications can cause a positive ANA result. These include some blood pressure medications, antibiotics, and anti-seizure drugs. Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.
What happens if my ANA is positive?
A positive ANA does not necessarily mean you have an autoimmune disease. Your doctor will evaluate the result along with your symptoms, physical examination findings, and other laboratory tests to determine if further investigation is needed. Many healthy people, especially older adults, have low-level positive ANA results.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within a few days, but this may vary depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results or discuss them at your follow-up appointment.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) TestSource
  2. 2
    May Clinic - ANA TestSource
  3. 3
    Arthritis Foundation - Understanding ANA ResultsSource

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