Anti-Nuclear Antibodies
Test Code
ANA
Description
Anti-Nuclear Antibodies are autoantibodies that bind to the contents of the cell nucleus. The presence of these antibodies can be used in conjunction with clinical findings and other laboratory tests to aid in the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE or lupus) and related connective tissue diseases, such as Sjogren’s disease, scleroderma and myositis
Collect
Draw one plain red top tube or SST tube and obtain 1 mL of serum
Patient Prep
Preferred volume: 1 mL serumPediatric Collection
Minimum volume: 0.5mL serum
Unacceptable Conditions
Plasma, lipemic, grossly hemolyzed, microbially contaminated specimens, or specimens with visible particulates should not be used.
Storage Transport Temp
Frozen. Send serum Priority Overnight via FedEx and in a well insulated container on dry ice.
Stability
Up to 8 hours ambient or 48 hours refrigerated at 2-8°C. Freeze at or below -20°C for longer storage or shipping.
Notes
Positive ANA samples will be automatically reflexed to the ENA6 test for extractable nuclear antigens, which includes IgG antibodies to Sm/RNP, Sm, SS-A, SS-B, Scl-70 and Jo-1, measured by enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay (ELISA).
Performed
Tuesdays & Thursdays
Methodology
Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
Turnaround Time
5-7 business days
Department
Immunology Lab - Diagnostic
Synonyms
ANA Profile, IFA
Study Offerings
CAP/CLIA
Related Tests
ENA6, DsDNA
Reference Interval
< 1:80 titer, Negative
Interpretation
Presence of antibodies in this test may be used in conjunction with patient’s clinical findings and other clinical tests to aid in the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus and related connective tissue diseases, such as Sjogren’s disease, scleroderma and myositis.
CPT Code
86038
New York Approved
FDA Approved or Cleared
FDA
Approved or Cleared