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

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

This test measures antibodies that attack healthy cells in your body, often linked to autoimmune conditions. It uses a special fluorescent probe to detect these antibodies in your serum.

Quick summary

["ANA testing helps identify potential autoimmune diseases by checking for abnormal antibodies targeting your body’s own tissues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49537-4
Short code
FLUAV + FLUBV RNA Islt NAA+probe
Synonyms
FLUAV + FLUBV RNA Islt NAA+probe
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
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 Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, unexplained fatigue, rash, or other signs of an autoimmune disorder. It’s also used as part of a screening or diagnostic workup for conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or other connective tissue diseases.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken, and the serum is analyzed using a fluorescent immunoassay. Fluorescent antibodies bind to specific nuclear components in cells, allowing the test to detect abnormal levels of anti-nuclear antibodies.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about any medications or conditions that might affect results, such as recent infections or certain medications.

Possible Results and Next Steps

Results may be positive (indicating the presence of anti-nuclear antibodies) or negative. A positive result doesn’t always mean an autoimmune disease is present—further testing may be needed to confirm or explore other causes.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Anti-nuclear antibodies are often found in people with autoimmune diseases, but they can also appear in healthy individuals or those with infections. A positive ANA test is more likely to be significant if combined with other symptoms, clinical findings, or additional testing. It’s a useful screening tool but not definitive on its own.

Short name

ANA Fluorescence Probe

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive ANA test mean?
A positive ANA test suggests you may have an autoimmune condition or another condition affecting your immune system, but it doesn’t confirm a specific diagnosis. Further evaluation, including other blood tests or clinical assessment, is needed to determine the cause of your symptoms.
Can lifestyle changes affect ANA test results?
Lifestyle factors like diet, stress, or certain medications may influence immune activity, but they typically don’t directly alter ANA test results. If you suspect your medications or lifestyle are affecting your health, discuss this with your doctor.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency of ANA testing depends on your symptoms, medical history, and doctor’s recommendations. If you have an autoimmune condition, your doctor may monitor it regularly, but otherwise, this test is usually ordered as needed for specific concerns.
  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