Anti Nuclear Antibodies (Immuno Floresence) Test

This test is also known as ANA, Fluorescent Antinuclear Antibody, FANA and Antinuclear Antibody Panel. Primarily, this test is used to diagnose autoimmune disorders in a person, especially the systemic variety. It is widely used in the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Anti Nuclear Antibodies (ANA) are actually a group of autoantibodies produced by our immune system. Issues occur when these start attacking the cells, causing them harm. This test may be used in conjunction with autoantibody tests for an accurate diagnosis.

There is no need for taking any special preparation for undergoing this test. It is a normal blood test wherein the sample will be taken from a vein in the arm. In case you have any doubts about any special medical conditions or medications that you are taking, kindly check with the doctor who prescribed the test. Just to make sure that the blood can be drawn easily, you may want to wear some comfortable clothing wherein the arm is easily accessible.

This test is mostly advised when a person shows symptoms of autoimmune disorders like fever, weakness and fatigue, red rashes, skin sensitivity to light, joint pains as in arthritis, muscle pain, numbness, etc. If the test result is positive, it means that there are autoantibodies present. If this is seen in a person with the above symptoms, it might indicate the presence of an autoimmune disorder. Most commonly, a positive result may be an indication of SLE. Few follow-up tests may be ordered by the doctor for confirmation of the disease. It may also be indicative of conditions like drug-induced lupus, Sjögren syndrome, Scleroderma etc.

A negative test result can rule out SLE, but the doctor may repeat the test after a while, if symptoms recur or persist.

The lab assistant will use a standard vial attached to the needle to draw the required amount of blood from your arm. The site on the arm is prepared using an alcohol swab for cleaning. The vein to draw the blood is detected and the needle will be inserted into it with a minor prick. No discomfort is expected. Once the required volume of blood is drawn, the needle is slowly withdrawn and the site is sealed using a plaster. The sealed vial is carefully preserved and sent to the laboratory for analysis.