Deprecated ENA Screen, Cerebrospinal Fluid, Qualitative
This entry refers to a deprecated laboratory test that screened cerebrospinal fluid for antinuclear antibody extractable nuclear antigens. It is no longer a current test offering, so modern testing would use updated methods and separate specific antibody assays.
["This is a retired screening test for extractable nuclear antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid and should not be ordered as a current test."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 81741-1
- Short code
- Deprecated ENA SM Ab CSF Ql IB
- Synonyms
- Deprecated ENA SM Ab CSF Ql IB
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ib
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Was
The name combines "deprecated," indicating the test has been retired, with ENA (extractable nuclear antigen) antibodies, "sma" and "b" fragments, CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) as the specimen, and "qlib" suggesting a qualitative result. Because the abbreviation is ambiguous and the test is deprecated, the exact analyte panel cannot be reliably reconstructed.
Specimen and Method
The test used cerebrospinal fluid rather than blood. The method is not clearly identifiable from the compressed slug, so specific technique details should not be assumed. Current practice would rely on validated, documented immunoassay methods.
Why It Was Used
ENA screens were historically used to look for antibodies against extractable nuclear antigens, which can be associated with certain autoimmune connective tissue diseases. Screening cerebrospinal fluid was uncommon and is not standard modern practice.
What to Do Instead
If your clinician suspects an autoimmune or neurologic condition, current testing typically involves specific antibody tests on serum or cerebrospinal fluid ordered with clear documentation. Discuss appropriate modern testing with your healthcare provider rather than relying on this retired entry.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This deprecated test has limited clinical relevance today because ENA antibody testing is now performed with specific, individually validated assays rather than broad screens, and cerebrospinal fluid ENA testing is not routine. Results from retired tests should not guide current care; clinicians should select contemporary, clearly defined tests based on the clinical question.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still order this test?
What does "ENA" mean?
Why was cerebrospinal fluid used?
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy