Nucleosome Antibody Screening by Line Blot (Serum/Plasma)
This test detects antibodies related to nucleosomes, which are protein-DNA complexes found in cells. It may help identify conditions where these complexes become abnormal, such as certain autoimmune or inflammatory diseases.
["This screening helps doctors check for hidden immune responses tied to cell damage or disease processes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 89506-0
- Short code
- Nucleosome Ab Ser Ql Line blot
- Synonyms
- Nucleosome Ab Ser Ql Line blot
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- line-blot
- 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 Nucleosome Antibody Testing Used For?
Nucleosome antibodies can appear when the body’s immune system reacts to damaged cells, often seen in conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders. This test may be used as part of a broader evaluation for unexplained symptoms or suspected autoimmune disease.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn, and the serum or plasma is tested using a line blot assay. This method detects specific antibodies that bind to nucleosome markers, helping identify abnormal immune activity.
What Might Trigger a Positive Result?
A positive result may suggest an ongoing immune response to cell damage, which can occur in autoimmune diseases, infections, or certain cancers. However, it’s not always definitive and may require further testing.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of nucleosome antibodies, which may point toward conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or other autoimmune disorders. It doesn’t diagnose the condition alone but may guide further evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Nucleosome antibodies can signal an immune response to cell death or inflammation. While they’re not specific to one disease, they’re often linked to autoimmune conditions where the body attacks its own tissues. Doctors may use this test to monitor disease activity or assess unexplained symptoms.
Short name
Nucleosome Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What are the most common conditions associated with positive results?
Do I need to prepare for 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