Skip to content

Serum or Plasma Substance Concentration (Qualitative) for Autoimmune Antibodies (e.g., Antinuclear Antibodies, ANA)

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

This test measures certain antibodies in your blood that may indicate an autoimmune condition, where your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells.

Quick summary

["Autoimmune conditions can affect joints, skin, or other organs—this test helps identify potential risks."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
6559-9
Short code
S pyo Ag Spec Ql IF
Synonyms
S pyo Ag Spec Ql IF
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
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 Autoimmune Antibody Test Used For?

Autoimmune diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjogren’s syndrome can cause symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, or unexplained rashes. This test helps doctors check for antibodies that may signal these conditions, guiding further testing or treatment plans.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to separate serum or plasma, where antibodies are measured using an immunoassay method. Results are qualitative (positive/negative) rather than a specific numeric value.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result means your blood contains antibodies linked to autoimmune activity, but it doesn’t confirm a specific disease. Follow-up tests may be needed to narrow down potential conditions.

Common Conditions Linked to Positive Results

Positive results may suggest conditions like lupus, scleroderma, or mixed connective tissue disease. However, some people test positive without symptoms, so additional testing is often required to diagnose or rule out specific diseases.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

ANA Screening/Confirmatory Test

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, unexplained fatigue, or skin rashes, or if you have a family history of autoimmune diseases. It can also be part of routine monitoring for certain conditions.
What if my results are negative?
A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found in this test, but it doesn’t rule out all autoimmune conditions. Some diseases may require different antibody markers or additional tests for confirmation.
How often should I get retested?
Retesting depends on your symptoms and medical history. Your doctor will determine if follow-up testing is needed, such as repeating this test or ordering more specific antibody panels.
  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