Autoantibody Profile to Screen for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and Related Autoimmune Conditions
This blood test checks for antibodies that may indicate an autoimmune condition, such as lupus or other inflammatory diseases.
["Helps identify potential autoimmune activity in your body."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 902-7
- Short code
- ABSCREENPW
- Synonyms
- Bld gp Ab Autol Scn SerPl Ql Pwarm
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or plain red-top tube for serum; EDTA plasma tube (lavender-top) acceptable for plasma. Blood bank tubes may be required per institutional protocol.
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 17
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- blood-group-antibody-screen-prewarmed
- CPT
- 86850
- SNOMED
- 35658006
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 mL of whole blood (yielding 2-5 mL of serum or plasma); minimum 1 mL of serum/plasma required for testing
- Stability
- Serum/plasma stable at room temperature (18-25°C) for up to 4 hours post-collection; refrigerated (2-8°C) for up to 7 days; frozen (-20°C or below) for long-term storage up to 6 months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 2–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test detects specific autoantibodies, including those that may target nuclear components (ANA), double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA), and other proteins associated with autoimmune diseases. Some tests may also include markers for rheumatoid arthritis (e.g., anti-citrullinated protein antibodies) or other connective tissue disorders.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, rash, or other signs of an autoimmune condition. It can also be used as part of a routine checkup for individuals at higher risk.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the draw if certain components of the panel require it. Wear a comfortable shirt for easy access.
What to Expect During the Test
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into your arm to draw blood. You may feel a brief pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The process takes about 5 minutes.
Reference range
NCBI: NSE 0-17 ng/mLN/A
No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary. Patients should be informed about the purpose of the test, particularly if a history of transfusion, pregnancy, or hemolytic anemia exists. Recent transfusion within the previous 3 months may affect results due to mixed field reactions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results for certain autoantibodies can support a diagnosis of autoimmune diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or mixed connective tissue disease. However, elevated levels alone don’t confirm a diagnosis—your provider will consider symptoms, medical history, and other test results. Negative results rule out these conditions but don’t guarantee they’re absent.
Short name
Autoimmune Antibody Panel
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test be used to monitor treatment?
Are there any risks or side effects?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy