SAMPLE NEEDED

Our ANA test basically is a single test requiring a blood sample. No fasting or preparation is required by the patient before testing. To perform this test you will need to visit your laboratory of choice for the collection of a Blood sample.

TEST BACKGROUND  INFORMATION

ANA is a group of antinuclear antibodies used to diagnose systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other autoimmune (rheumatic) diseases. Some of the antibodies in this group are specific for SLE, and others are specific for other autoimmune diseases. ANA can be tested as a specific antibody or as a group with nonspecific antigens. The former is more specific, but testing ANA with less specific antigens may be an excellent preliminary test for those suspected of having autoimmune diseases.

Because almost all patients with SLE develop autoantibodies, a negative ANA test excludes the diagnosis. Positive results occur in nearly 95% of patients with this disease; however, many other rheumatic diseases are also associated with ANA. Few among other diseases associated with ANA areSjögren's syndrome, Scleroderma, Autoimmune thyroiditis, autoimmune hepatitis, Dermatomyositis, Primary biliary cirrhosis,and Polymyositis.