Anti Nuclear Antibody (ANA) - IFA - Pattern identification on Hep-2 cells with reflex titers

This test is typically ordered when a healthcare provider suspects an autoimmune disease based on your symptoms. Symptoms may include joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes, and unexplained fever.

This test measures the presence and quantity of ANAs in the blood. It also identifies the pattern of these antibodies, which can provide additional information about the potential type of autoimmune disease.

The frequency of this test depends on your symptoms and your healthcare provider's recommendations. It is not a routine test and is typically ordered when specific autoimmune diseases are suspected.

Generally, ANAs should not be present in high quantities in the blood. However, the interpretation of results depends on the method used and the reference range of the lab performing the test.

There are no specific precautions for this test. However, if the test result is positive, it is crucial to follow your healthcare provider's advice regarding follow-up and potential treatment.

Various factors can influence ANA levels, including certain medications and viral infections. Some healthy individuals, particularly the elderly, may also have a low level of ANAs without any associated autoimmune disease.

You should consult a rheumatologist if your ANA test comes back positive. A rheumatologist specializes in diagnosing and treating autoimmune diseases.

While an ANA test can suggest the presence of an autoimmune disease, it is not sufficient for a definitive diagnosis. The presence of symptoms and additional diagnostic tests are also crucial for diagnosis.

The ANA test does not typically provide a measure of disease severity. Your healthcare provider will evaluate your condition based on your symptoms, the ANA pattern, and other diagnostic tests.

While certain autoimmune diseases can run in families, ANA levels themselves are not inherited.

Yes, some healthy individuals may have elevated ANA levels, particularly the elderly. However, this alone does not confirm a diagnosis of an autoimmune disease.

A positive result indicates the presence of ANAs in the blood, which can suggest an autoimmune disease. However, the type of ANA pattern can provide additional information about the potential type of autoimmune disease.

Knowing your ANA status is an essential step in diagnosing and managing autoimmune diseases. If your test result is positive, it's important to discuss the results with your healthcare provider, who can guide you on the next steps to manage your health effectively.