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

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

This test measures antibodies in your blood that attack healthy cells in your body, often linked to autoimmune conditions. It helps doctors check for conditions like lupus or other connective tissue diseases.

Quick summary

["This test helps identify if your immune system is mistakenly attacking your own tissues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49531-7
Short code
FLUAV RNA Islt Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
FLUAV RNA Islt 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

Why Is This Test Done?

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

How Is the Sample Collected?

A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for testing.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result means your blood contains anti-nuclear antibodies, which may suggest an autoimmune condition. However, not everyone with these antibodies has a disease, and some healthy people may also test positive. Results are usually interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms and other test results.

What Are Common Causes of Positive Results?

Positive ANA results can occur in autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, scleroderma), infections, certain medications, or during pregnancy. Some people with negative results may still have autoimmune conditions, so further testing may be needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

ANA Fluorescence Test

Frequently asked questions

What does it mean if my ANA test is positive?
A positive ANA test indicates the presence of antibodies that target your body’s own cells. While this can signal an autoimmune condition, it doesn’t always mean you have one. Your doctor will likely order additional tests, such as other blood tests or a biopsy, to narrow down the diagnosis and guide treatment if needed.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency of this test depends on your symptoms, medical history, and diagnosis. If you have an autoimmune condition, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. If you’re asymptomatic, this test may be part of routine check-ups or only when symptoms arise.
Can lifestyle changes affect my ANA test results?
ANA test results are based on the presence of antibodies in your blood and are not influenced by lifestyle factors like diet or exercise. However, managing symptoms of autoimmune diseases through lifestyle changes (e.g., stress reduction, physical activity) can help overall health and may indirectly support treatment plans.
  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