Skip to content

Fluorescent Immunoassay for Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA) in Serum/Plasma

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

This test measures antibodies your immune system may produce against components of your cell nucleus, which can help identify certain autoimmune conditions.

Quick summary

["ANA testing helps diagnose autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis by detecting unusual immune responses."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
86569-1
Short code
FLUAV RNA Tiss Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
FLUAV RNA Tiss 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 This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, or unexplained rashes, or if you have a family history of autoimmune diseases. It’s also sometimes used as part of a general screening when other tests suggest possible autoimmune activity.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The test looks for antibodies that attack nuclear material in cells, detected through a fluorescent reaction.

How the Test Works

A small amount of your blood is mixed with a substance that contains cell nuclei. If your body produces ANA, they’ll bind to these nuclei, making them glow under a microscope. The fluorescence indicates a positive result.

Possible Results and Interpretation

A positive result means your immune system may be attacking your own cells, which can signal an autoimmune condition. However, a negative result doesn’t always rule out these diseases, as some people have low or fluctuating ANA levels.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

ANA Fluorescence Probe

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive ANA test mean?
A positive ANA test suggests an increased likelihood of an autoimmune disease, but it’s not definitive. Many healthy people have low or negative ANA levels. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, other test results, and medical history to make a diagnosis.
Can a positive ANA test be false positive?
Yes, especially in early autoimmune diseases or during flare-ups. Some medications, infections, or other conditions can also cause false positives. Follow-up testing or additional bloodwork may be needed to clarify results.
What if my ANA test is positive but I don’t have symptoms?
A positive ANA test alone doesn’t mean you have an autoimmune disease. Your doctor may recommend further testing, like checking for specific antibodies or monitoring symptoms over time. Regular follow-ups can help track any changes.
  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