ANA Test Procedure and Results
Learn about the ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) test, its procedure, and how results help diagnose autoimmune disorders like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and scleroderma.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Last updated on 26th Aug, 2025
If you or someone you know has been advised to take an ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) test, you might have questions about what it is, why it’s needed, and what the results mean. This article will guide you through the ANA test procedure, its purpose, and how to interpret the results in simple terms.
What is an ANA Test?
The ANA test is a blood test that checks for antinuclear antibodies in your body. These antibodies are proteins produced by your immune system that mistakenly target your own healthy cells, particularly the nucleus (center) of the cells.
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Why is the ANA Test Done?
Doctors recommend an ANA test if they suspect an autoimmune disorder, where the immune system attacks the body’s own tissues. Some common conditions linked to a positive ANA test include:
Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus - SLE)
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Sjögren’s Syndrome
Scleroderma
Polymyositis or Dermatomyositis
However, a positive ANA test does not always mean you have an autoimmune disease. Some healthy people may also have low levels of these antibodies.
ANA Test Procedure: What to Expect
The ANA test is a simple blood test with minimal discomfort. Here’s what happens:
1. Preparation:
No special preparation is needed. You can eat and drink normally before the test.
Inform your doctor if you’re taking any medications, as some drugs can affect the results.
2. Blood Sample Collection:
A healthcare professional will clean your arm and insert a small needle to draw blood from a vein.
The process takes just a few minutes, and you may feel a slight pinch.
3. After the Test:
You can resume normal activities immediately.
Some people may experience mild bruising at the needle site, which fades in a few days.
Understanding ANA Test Results
ANA test results are reported in two ways:
1. Titer (Numerical Value):
This indicates how much the blood sample can be diluted before antibodies are no longer detected.
Common titers: 1:40, 1:80, 1:160, 1:320, etc.
Higher titers (e.g., 1:320 or above) are more likely to indicate an autoimmune disorder.
2. Pattern (Fluorescence Pattern):
The lab also observes how antibodies bind to cells under a microscope, which can suggest certain diseases.
Common patterns: Homogeneous, Speckled, Nucleolar, Centromere.
What Does a Positive ANA Mean?
Low titer (e.g., 1:40 or 1:80): May occur in healthy individuals or due to infections.
High titer (e.g., 1:160 or above): More likely linked to autoimmune diseases.
Pattern matters: Some patterns are more associated with specific conditions (e.g., speckled pattern in lupus).
What If My ANA Test is Negative?
A negative result means no significant antinuclear antibodies were detected, making autoimmune disorders less likely. However, some people with autoimmune diseases may still test negative, so doctors consider symptoms and other tests.
Next Steps After an ANA Test
If your ANA test is positive, your doctor may order follow-up tests to confirm a diagnosis, such as:
Anti-dsDNA (for Lupus)
Anti-SSA/SSB (for Sjögren’s Syndrome)
Rheumatoid Factor (for Rheumatoid Arthritis)
When to See a Doctor?
If you experience symptoms like:
Persistent joint pain or swelling
Unexplained fatigue
Skin rashes (especially butterfly rash on the face)
Dry eyes/mouth
Muscle weakness
Consult a rheumatologist (a specialist in autoimmune diseases) for further evaluation.
Lifestyle Tips for Managing Autoimmune Conditions
While treatment depends on the specific condition, some general tips can help:
Balanced Diet: Eat anti-inflammatory foods (fruits, vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids).
Regular Exercise: Gentle activities like walking or yoga can reduce stiffness.
Stress Management: Meditation and deep breathing help lower inflammation.
Adequate Rest: Fatigue is common in autoimmune disorders, so prioritize sleep.
Avoid Smoking & Alcohol: These can worsen symptoms.
Book an ANA Test with Apollo 24|7
If your doctor has recommended an ANA test, you can easily schedule a blood test through Apollo 24|7. With home sample collection and quick results, managing your health has never been easier.
Final Thoughts
The ANA test is a helpful tool in diagnosing autoimmune conditions, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Always discuss your results with a doctor for proper interpretation and next steps. Early detection and treatment can make a big difference in managing autoimmune diseases effectively.
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