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Anti-Nuclear Antibody (ANA) Profile with Immunofluorescence Probe

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

This test measures antibodies that may indicate autoimmune conditions by detecting their presence in your blood.

Quick summary

["ANA tests help identify potential autoimmune diseases by checking for abnormal antibodies targeting your body’s own cells."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
60544-4
Short code
G lamblia DNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
G lamblia DNA Spec 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

Doctors may order an ANA test if you have symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, or unexplained rashes, or if they suspect an autoimmune disorder. It’s often used as a screening tool before further testing.

What to Expect During the Test

The test involves drawing blood, which is then analyzed to detect specific antibodies. Results are typically reported as positive or negative for certain antibody patterns.

What the Results Mean

A positive ANA test does not definitively diagnose an autoimmune disease but may prompt further testing. False positives can occur, so additional evaluation is needed.

Common Conditions Linked to Positive ANA

Positive ANA results are often seen in conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or scleroderma, though other autoimmune or non-autoimmune diseases may also cause them.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Autoimmune Disease Screening

Short name

ANA Screening/Confirmatory

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
Can lifestyle changes affect ANA test results?
ANA tests measure antibodies present in your blood, which are not influenced by short-term lifestyle changes. However, chronic conditions or medications may indirectly affect interpretation.
What if my ANA test is positive but I don’t have symptoms?
A positive ANA result alone does not mean you have an autoimmune disease. Further testing, such as specific antibody panels or clinical evaluation, will help determine next steps.
  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