Fluorescent Immunoassay for Antihuman Anti-Human Antibodies (ANA) in Serum
This test detects antibodies in your blood that may target your own healthy cells, often used to help diagnose conditions like lupus or other autoimmune diseases.
["This test helps identify autoimmune disorders by checking for antibodies that attack your body’s tissues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 59424-2
- Short code
- FLUAV HA RNA Islt NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- FLUAV HA 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, fatigue, rash, or other signs of an autoimmune condition. It can also be used as part of a routine check for certain illnesses or to monitor disease activity in people already diagnosed with autoimmune disorders.
How the Test Works
A small sample of your blood is taken and tested using a fluorescent immunoassay. This method detects specific antibodies (ANA) that bind to certain proteins in your cells, which glow under a microscope to confirm their presence.
Sample Collection
Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, by a healthcare professional. You may feel a small pinch when the needle is inserted, but the process is quick and typically not painful.
What to Expect Before the Test
There are no special preparations needed for this test. However, inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking, as some may affect results. Avoid alcohol before testing if advised by your doctor.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
ANA Fluorescent Probe Test
Frequently asked questions
This test is important because it can help identify autoimmune diseases by detecting antibodies that your immune system mistakenly targets. While a positive result doesn’t always mean you have an autoimmune condition, it may prompt further testing to diagnose or monitor the disease.
A positive ANA test means your blood contains antibodies that target your body’s cells. This can be common in autoimmune diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or scleroderma, but it can also occur in people without these conditions. Your doctor will use the result along with other tests and symptoms to make a diagnosis.
Yes, the ANA test can sometimes give false positives, especially if the sample is not handled properly or if there are other health issues. If your doctor suspects an autoimmune condition, they may repeat the test or order additional tests to confirm the diagnosis.
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