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Serum or Plasma Immunoassay for Anti-Nuclear Antibodies (ANA) by Qualitative Immunofluorescence

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

This test measures whether your blood contains antibodies that attack healthy cells in your body, often linked to autoimmune conditions.

Quick summary

["ANA helps identify potential autoimmune diseases by detecting abnormal antibodies in your serum or plasma."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72912-9
Short code
HNA 4a/4a Ab Ser Ql IA
Synonyms
HNA 4a/4a Ab Ser Ql IA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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 Is an ANA Test Used For?

ANA tests are primarily used to screen for autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or other connective tissue disorders. They don’t diagnose the disease directly but can help guide further testing if abnormal results are found.

How Is the ANA Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from your arm and sent to a lab. The test uses a special immunofluorescence method to detect antibodies that target nuclear components in cells. Results are reported as positive or negative, not with specific numeric values.

What Does an ANA Test Result Mean?

A positive ANA result means your blood contains abnormal antibodies. However, a positive test alone doesn’t confirm an autoimmune disease. Doctors may order additional tests to narrow down possible conditions.

Common Conditions Linked to ANA Test Results

Positive ANA results are common in autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), scleroderma, or mixed connective tissue disease. They can also appear in healthy individuals or during infections.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

ANA (Qualitative)

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor order an ANA test?
Your doctor may recommend an ANA test if you have symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, rash, or unexplained fever. It’s also used as a follow-up test for people with autoimmune conditions or those with certain illnesses.
What if my ANA test is positive but I don’t have symptoms?
A positive ANA test doesn’t always mean you have an autoimmune disease. Doctors will often check other factors, such as symptoms, family history, or additional blood tests, to determine the next steps.
How often should I get an ANA test?
The frequency of ANA testing depends on your medical history and symptoms. Your doctor will decide based on your individual needs, such as monitoring an existing condition or evaluating new symptoms.
  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