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Autoantibody Profile to Screen for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and Other Autoimmune Conditions

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

This test measures a panel of antibodies that may indicate an autoimmune disorder, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. It helps your healthcare provider assess whether your symptoms could be linked to an immune system dysfunction.

Quick summary

["This screening helps identify potential autoimmune conditions that may require further evaluation or treatment."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
893-8
Short code
ABSCRA
Synonyms
Bld gp Ab Autol Scn SerPl-Imp
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) or plain red-top tube for serum; EDTA (lavender-top) plasma tube acceptable. Blood bank collection tubes may be required for transfusion-related testing.
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
17
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
blood-group-antibody-screen
CPT
86885
SNOMED
117905003
Specimen volume
3-5 mL of whole blood (yielding 1-2 mL serum or plasma); minimum 1 mL serum/plasma required for testing
Stability
Serum/plasma stable for 72 hours at 2-8°C (refrigerated). For delayed testing beyond 72 hours, store at -20°C or colder. Do not freeze whole blood. Specimen must be tested before expiration date of blood bank sample retention policies (typically 7-14 days for transfusion-related samples).
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
1–8 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test includes antibodies like anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA), anti-Smith (anti-Sm), anti-Ro/SSA, anti-La/SSB, anti-RNP, and others. These antibodies are often elevated in conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), mixed connective tissue disease, or other autoimmune diseases. The presence of these antibodies can help guide diagnosis and management plans.

Why It Matters in Diagnosis

Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. While antibodies alone don’t confirm a diagnosis, they are critical in narrowing down possible conditions. This test helps your doctor determine if further testing or monitoring is needed.

Common Conditions Linked to Positive Results

Positive results may suggest conditions such as lupus, scleroderma, Sjogren’s syndrome, or other autoimmune disorders. However, some people without autoimmune disease may also test positive due to normal variations or other health factors.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a blood draw, and the sample will be sent to a lab for analysis. Results are typically reported as positive or negative for each antibody tested, rather than specific numeric values.

Reference range

NCBI: NSE 0-17 ng/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation or fasting required. However, recent blood transfusions (within the last 3-4 months), pregnancy, or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation may affect results due to potential formation of alloantibodies or autoantibodies. Patient should be informed about the purpose of testing in pre-transfusion evaluation or autoimmune hemolytic anemia workup.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Autoimmune Screen (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result for certain antibodies increases the likelihood of an autoimmune condition. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results in detail and may recommend additional tests or monitoring to confirm a diagnosis or rule out other conditions.
Can false positives occur?
Yes, false positives can happen, especially for some antibodies. This is why further evaluation, including clinical correlation and possibly additional tests, is important. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results when making a diagnosis.
How often will I need this test?
The frequency depends on your symptoms, medical history, and treatment plan. If you have an autoimmune condition, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. If this test is part of a routine check, they may schedule it at intervals recommended by guidelines or your care plan.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy