Autoantibody Screening Panel (Autoimmune Disease Markers)
This test measures a group of antibodies that may indicate an autoimmune condition, where your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in your body.
["Helps identify possible autoimmune disorders by detecting abnormal antibodies in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 88880-0
- Short code
- MDW Bld Auto
- Synonyms
- MDW Bld Auto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- automated
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
This screening includes tests for several common autoantibodies, such as those linked to conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or other inflammatory diseases. The specific antibodies tested may include antinuclear antibodies (ANA), rheumatoid factor (RF), and others depending on the panel. The results help guide further diagnostic steps if needed.
Common Conditions This Test May Help Diagnose
Autoimmune diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, or mixed connective tissue disease may show up on this screening. It’s not a definitive diagnosis but can signal a need for additional testing.
How the Test Works
Blood is drawn and analyzed using immunoassay methods (like enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, or ELISA) to detect the presence of these antibodies. The test looks for substances in your blood that bind to specific proteins, indicating an immune response.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may want to avoid alcohol for 24 hours before your blood draw. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for a short time.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Autoimmune Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
Positive results may prompt further testing to confirm a specific autoimmune condition or rule out other causes. While many people test positive for these antibodies without symptoms, they can still be important for monitoring or early intervention in certain cases.
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies that may suggest an autoimmune condition. This doesn’t always mean you have a disease, but it could mean your doctor will order more tests to check for symptoms or other markers. Follow-up may include additional blood tests, physical exams, or other evaluations.
Some autoimmune conditions may be influenced by diet, stress, or other lifestyle factors, but these tests primarily measure antibody presence. Results are based on your current blood sample and may not reflect long-term trends without retesting.
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