Antibodies to Nucleosomes (Serum)
This test measures antibodies against nucleosomes, small protein-DNA complexes found in cell nuclei. These antibodies may appear in the blood when the body’s immune system reacts to damaged cells, often linked to autoimmune conditions.
["This test helps identify potential autoimmune responses linked to conditions like lupus or other inflammatory diseases."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53015-4
- Short code
- Nucleosome Ab Ser Ql
- Synonyms
- Nucleosome Ab Ser Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms suggestive of an autoimmune disorder, such as joint pain, fatigue, rash, or unexplained inflammation. It may also be used to monitor disease activity in certain conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood thinners, inform your provider beforehand to avoid unnecessary delays.
What the Results Mean
Positive results suggest an immune response targeting nucleosomes, which can indicate conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or other autoimmune diseases. However, false positives can occur, so results are often interpreted alongside clinical findings and other tests.
Common Conditions Linked to Positive Results
Elevated nucleosome antibodies are most strongly associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other autoimmune rheumatic diseases. They may also appear in inflammatory conditions or during periods of immune activation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Antibodies to nucleosomes are a marker of immune-mediated inflammation. While not definitive for lupus or other autoimmune diseases, they support diagnosis when combined with clinical symptoms, other test results, and patient history. Monitoring these antibodies can help track disease progression or response to treatment.
Short name
Nucleosome Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can this test be used to diagnose lupus?
How often will I need this test?
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