Fluorescent Immunoassay for Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA) in Serum
This test measures antibodies your immune system may produce against proteins in your cell nucleus, helping identify conditions like lupus or other autoimmune diseases.
["Helps diagnose autoimmune disorders by detecting unusual antibodies in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 101423-2
- Short code
- FLUAV H1 RNA Resp Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- FLUAV H1 RNA Resp Ql 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
What Does This Test Measure?
The test uses a special fluorescent probe to detect antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in your serum. If your immune system mistakenly targets nuclear components, these antibodies bind to them, making them glow under a microscope. This reaction helps identify whether you have an autoimmune condition affecting your cells.
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, rash, or unexplained organ issues. It’s often used as part of a broader evaluation for autoimmune diseases, including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s syndrome.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm into a tube. The serum (liquid part) is then separated and sent to the lab for testing.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are reported as a qualitative (positive/negative) finding or a titer (dilution level). A positive result suggests a higher likelihood of autoimmune activity, but it doesn’t confirm a specific diagnosis alone.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
ANA Fluorescence Test
Frequently asked questions
ANA testing helps rule out or support autoimmune diseases by detecting antibodies that attack your body’s own cells. While many healthy people have low levels, elevated or widespread antibodies may signal inflammation or immune dysfunction that requires further evaluation.
A positive ANA test means your blood contains antibodies against nuclear components, which may indicate an autoimmune condition. However, it doesn’t specify which disease you have. Follow-up tests or clinical symptoms are needed for diagnosis.
No, ANA test results are based on antibodies present in your blood and aren’t influenced by diet, stress, or other lifestyle factors. However, autoimmune symptoms may be temporarily affected by lifestyle choices.
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy