Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) test
Note: this site is for informational purposes only. To view test results or book a test, use the NHS app in England or contact your GP.
An antinuclear antibody (ANA) test looks for antibodies that attack the nucleus of your cells. This screening test helps doctors diagnose autoimmune conditions like lupus, Sjogren’s syndrome, and scleroderma.
Who needs this test
Your doctor might suggest this test if you have symptoms that could be caused by an autoimmune condition.
Common symptoms include joint pain, unexplained rashes, extreme tiredness, or fever without obvious cause.
The test is often the first step in diagnosing conditions like lupus or Sjogren’s syndrome.
Preparing for your test
You don’t need to do anything special before this test. You can eat and drink normally.
Tell your doctor about all medications you’re taking, as some drugs can affect the results.
A healthcare professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm.
Understanding your results
What the test measures
Antinuclear antibodies are proteins your immune system makes. In autoimmune conditions, your immune system mistakenly makes antibodies that attack the nucleus of your own cells.
The test looks for the pattern these antibodies make and how strong they are.
What your results mean
If your test is positive
A positive result means antinuclear antibodies are present in your blood. This suggests you might have an autoimmune condition.
However, many healthy people test positive, especially older adults and pregnant women. Your doctor will consider your symptoms and other tests.
The pattern of the result helps your doctor decide which specific condition you might have and which tests to do next.
If your test is negative
A negative result makes autoimmune conditions like lupus less likely. Your doctor will look for other causes of your symptoms.
Rarely, the test might be repeated later if your symptoms continue, as antibodies can develop over time.
Questions to ask your doctor
What happens next
If your test is positive, your doctor will arrange more specific antibody tests to identify which autoimmune condition you might have.
Your doctor will also consider your symptoms, medical history, and physical examination when making a diagnosis.
Diagnosis can take time because autoimmune conditions develop gradually and symptoms can come and go.
What can affect your results
Some medications can cause a positive ANA result, including some drugs for blood pressure and epilepsy.
Recent viral infections can sometimes cause temporary positive results.
Pregnancy and older age increase the chance of a positive result without having an autoimmune condition.