Why is the ANA test called an ANA test?
It’s called „antinuclear“ because it targets the nucleus (center) of the cells. Other names: antinuclear antibody panel, fluorescent antinuclear antibody, FANA, ANA What is it used for? An ANA test is used to help diagnose autoimmune disorders, including:
Can a positive ANA test show autoimmune disease?
Overview. But some people have positive ANA tests even when they’re healthy. Your doctor is likely to order an ANA test for a suspected autoimmune disease such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or scleroderma.
Can a negative ANA test be a false negative?
The ANA test can also give a false-negative result. A person may have a negative result but still have lupus, especially the disease is in the early stages. To check the blood sample for ANAs, a scientist will: Different patterns can suggest different autoimmune disorders.
Do you need to fast before an ANA test?
An ANA test requires a sample of your blood. If your sample is being used only for an ANA test, you can eat and drink normally before the test. If your blood sample will be used for additional tests, you might need to fast for a time before the test. Your doctor will give you instructions.
What happens if your ANA test comes back positive?
If your ANA test comes back positive, your doctor will need to run more tests in order to help determine if the results are related to a specific condition. The ANA test is especially helpful in diagnosing lupus. More than 95 percent of people with lupus will get a positive ANA test result.
What does a positive ANA test mean for lupus?
In most cases, a positive ANA test indicates that your immune system has launched a misdirected attack on your own tissue — in other words, an autoimmune reaction. But some people have positive ANA tests even when they’re healthy. Your doctor is likely to order an ANA test for a suspected autoimmune disease such as lupus,…
Can a ANA test tell if you have rheumatic disease?
Many rheumatic diseases have similar signs and symptoms — joint pain, fatigue and fever. While an ANA test can’t confirm a specific diagnosis, it can rule out some diseases. And if the ANA test is positive, your blood can be tested for the presence of particular antinuclear antibodies, some of which are specific to certain diseases.