An antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is a blood test that helps identify signs of an autoimmune disease. At MU Health Care, we use ANA testing as part of a complete evaluation.
Autoimmune diseases happen when your immune system mistakenly attacks your own cells instead of foreign cells such as bacteria or viruses. In some people, this process produces specific white blood cells called antinuclear antibodies (ANAs).
A positive ANA test result means these antibodies are present in blood but does not diagnosis any condition. This testing is part of a larger process to find out why your body is creating these cells.
Do I Need an ANA Test?
An ANA test may be ordered if you have symptoms that could suggest an autoimmune condition.
Your provider may recommend testing if you report concerns such as:
- Persistent joint pain or swelling
- Unexplained rashes
- Ongoing fatigue
- Fevers without a clear cause
- Symptoms affecting multiple body systems
A rheumatologist may also order an ANA test after a referral. The decision to test is based on your symptoms, medical history and results of other labs or imaging.
ANA testing is not used as a general screening test. It is most helpful when specific symptoms are present.
What Does a Positive ANA Test Mean?
A positive ANA test result is one indication you have an overly active immune system. As many as one in six people who are otherwise healthy have an overactive immune system.
An ANA test does not diagnose any condition on its own.
Autoimmune Disease Diagnosis at MU Health Care
A positive ANA test result is just one part of your larger health picture. Your doctor will discuss the next steps with you, which may include additional testing.
When you meet with a rheumatologist, they will ask you questions about your medical history, family history and other symptoms, which may include:
- Fevers
- Breathing issues
- Rashes and skin problems
- Nerve pain
- Consistent joint pain and swelling
- Vision and hearing problems
- Stomach and digestion issues
Because many autoimmune conditions affect multiple organs at once, MU Health Care offers a Medicine Specialty Clinic that brings together rheumatologists, dermatologists and pulmonologists to provide our patients with the best care.
Our rheumatologists will also help coordinate your care with any other experts you might need based on your specific symptoms and diagnosis.