Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No special preparation required.
- Turnaround: 1-3 business days (may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays)
What This Test Measures
This test measures antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in your blood. ANA are antibodies that can mistakenly target substances found in the nucleus of your own cells, a pattern associated with autoimmune activity. The result is reported as qualitative, meaning it comes back as positive or negative rather than as a specific numeric concentration.
A positive result indicates that antinuclear antibodies were detected in your sample. This test measures the presence of ANA itself, not any specific autoimmune disease. Your healthcare provider uses this result along with your symptoms, physical examination, and other testing to help evaluate possible autoimmune activity.
Benefits
- Checks for antinuclear antibodies, a marker linked to autoimmune activity
- Simple positive or negative result format
- No fasting or special preparation needed
- Confidential option without a doctor's order required
- Convenient online ordering with fast turnaround
- Affordable option for those without insurance
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals whose healthcare provider wants to check for antinuclear antibodies
- People experiencing symptoms their provider is evaluating for autoimmune activity
- Individuals without a doctor's order who want to check ANA status independently
- People without insurance seeking a lower cost testing option
- Individuals wanting a confidential way to check antinuclear antibody status
How It Works
- Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this test?
This test checks for the presence of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in your blood. ANA are antibodies that can target components within your own cells, a pattern seen in some autoimmune conditions. Checking for them may help a healthcare provider evaluate possible autoimmune activity, though the test does not diagnose any condition on its own.
2. What does this test measure, and how are results reported?
ANA are measured directly in a blood sample and reported qualitatively, as positive or negative, rather than as a numeric concentration, ratio, or titer. The result reflects only the presence or absence of ANA. It does not measure any other antibody or biomarker, and it does not point to a specific autoimmune diagnosis.
3. Who should consider this test, and when?
You might consider this test if you and your healthcare provider are evaluating symptoms that could be related to autoimmune activity, or as part of a broader evaluation your provider is conducting. It may also suit people who want a confidential way to check their ANA status without a doctor's order, or those without insurance who are looking for an affordable option. This test does not replace a full medical evaluation.
4. Do I need to fast or prepare before this test?
No special preparation is required, and you do not need to fast beforehand.
5. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 1-3 business days. Turnaround may take longer based on weather, holidays, or other lab delays.
6. How do I interpret the results?
A positive result does not by itself confirm an autoimmune condition, and a negative result does not rule one out. What your result means depends on your individual symptoms, medical history, and other clinical context. Your healthcare provider will consider it alongside your physical examination and any additional testing.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
7. What should I do if my result is positive?
Review your result with a qualified healthcare provider. Based on your symptoms and medical history, they can help determine whether additional evaluation or testing is appropriate.
8. How often should I get tested?
Testing frequency should be determined as directed by your healthcare provider based on your individual situation. There is no standard repeat testing schedule associated with this test.
Pre test preparation
No special preparation required.
