Understanding Your Lab Test: What It Measures, How the Sample Is Collected, and Why Your Doctor Ordered It
This test detects antinuclear antibodies in the fluid surrounding joints to help diagnose autoimmune conditions affecting the joints.
{"The test looks for antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in joint fluid","It helps diagnose autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus","A sample of synovial fluid is collected from the affected joint via arthrocentesis","Positive results suggest the immune system may be attacking joint tissues","Results are interpreted alongside clinical symptoms and other tests"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14616-7
- Short code
- ANA Titr Snv
- Synonyms
- ANA Titr Snv
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 86038
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test and what does it measure in my body?
The Nuclear Antibody (ANA) test in synovial fluid is a laboratory test that detects antinuclear antibodies in the fluid that cushions and lubricates your joints (synovial fluid). ANA are proteins produced by your immune system that mistakenly attack your body's own cells, particularly the nucleus of cells. When found in joint fluid, they can indicate an autoimmune disorder affecting the joints.
How is the sample collected, and what should I expect during the procedure?
A healthcare provider will perform a procedure called arthrocentesis (joint aspiration). They will clean the skin over the affected joint, apply a local anesthetic, and then insert a thin needle into the joint space to withdraw a small amount of synovial fluid. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Why is this test ordered, and what can my doctor learn from the results?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of joint pain, swelling, stiffness, or inflammation that suggest an autoimmune condition. It helps differentiate between various types of arthritis and autoimmune diseases that affect the joints.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to prepare for this test?
Is the joint aspiration painful?
How long does it take to get results?
What do positive results mean?
Are there risks associated with joint aspiration?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
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.
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