Antibody Screening for Autoimmune Antigens (Serum) via Immunoassay
This test measures antibodies that may indicate an autoimmune condition, where your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. It helps identify potential causes of symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, or unexplained rashes.
["Autoimmune antibodies can signal conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or other inflammatory diseases."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 83083-6
- Short code
- CA153
- Synonyms
- Cancer Ag15-3 SerPl IA-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST, gold top) or plain red top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 31.3
- Critical range
- 0.5 N/A – —
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunoassay (Chemiluminescent or Electrochemiluminescent Immunoassay)
- CPT
- 86300
- SNOMED
- 115341008
- Specimen volume
- 1.0 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 3 months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 300
- Icterus max
- 20
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
This test detects specific antibodies in your serum that target various proteins in your body. Certain antibodies may be linked to autoimmune diseases, where the immune system attacks healthy cells. The immunoassay method identifies these antibodies by detecting their presence, though not their exact concentration or specific types beyond screening.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent fatigue, joint swelling, unexplained rashes, or other signs of an autoimmune condition. It can also be part of a routine checkup for individuals with a family history of autoimmune diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for a short time.
What to Expect During the Test
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into your arm to draw blood. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The process takes only a few minutes, and you can resume normal activities afterward.
Reference range
< 31.3 U/mL (varies by laboratory and assay manufacturer)N/A
No fasting required. Avoid hemolysis. Inform clinician of any recent mammography, breast surgery, or breast manipulation, as these may transiently elevate CA 15-3 levels. Pregnancy status should be noted as CA 15-3 may be elevated in pregnant and lactating women.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results for certain antibodies may suggest an autoimmune condition, but they don’t confirm a diagnosis alone. Your doctor will review these results alongside your symptoms, medical history, and possibly additional tests to determine the next steps. Some antibodies are more commonly associated with specific diseases, helping guide treatment options.
Short name
Autoimmune Antibody Profile (Screen)
Frequently asked questions
How long will I need to wait for results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What does a ‘positive’ result mean?
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