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Fluorescent Immunoassay for Anti-Nuclear Antibodies (ANA) in Serum

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures antibodies your immune system may produce against parts of your cell nucleus, often linked to autoimmune conditions.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose or monitor autoimmune diseases by detecting unusual immune activity."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44567-6
Short code
FLUAV+FLUBV Ag Nose Ql
Synonyms
FLUAV+FLUBV Ag Nose Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters for Your Health

Autoimmune diseases occur when your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in your body. This test checks for antibodies (ANA) that target nuclear material, which can signal potential autoimmune activity. While not all positive results indicate a disease, they may prompt further evaluation.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample drawn from your arm. The test uses a fluorescent method to detect antibodies in your serum, which is processed in a lab.

How the Results Are Used

Results help doctors assess whether you have an autoimmune condition or inflammation. A positive result doesn’t always mean a diagnosis, but it may guide next steps like additional testing or treatment planning.

Common Conditions Linked to Positive ANA Results

Positive ANA results are often seen in conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders. However, some healthy people also test positive, so further testing (like specific antibody panels) is usually needed for confirmation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: ANA Testing in Practice

Short name

ANA Fluorescence Test

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive ANA result mean?
A positive ANA result suggests your immune system may be attacking your body’s own cells, which is common in autoimmune diseases. However, it doesn’t confirm a specific diagnosis. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, other test results, and medical history to determine next steps.
Why might my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, rash, or unexplained fever, or if they suspect an autoimmune condition. It’s also used as a screening tool for certain diseases, especially when other tests are inconclusive.
Can I have false-positive or false-negative results?
Yes, both false positives and false negatives can occur. False positives may happen if you have a mild infection or are pregnant. False negatives can occur if the test isn’t sensitive enough for your condition. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy