ANA blood test
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
An ANA blood test looks for antinuclear antibodies. Antibodies are proteins your immune system makes to fight germs. But sometimes your body makes antibodies that attack its own cells, especially the nucleus (control center) of cells. The ANA test helps doctors check for autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. A positive test does not mean you have a disease—it is a clue that more tests may be needed.
Key facts
- ANA stands for antinuclear antibody.
- The test is a blood draw taken from a vein in your arm.
- A positive result can be seen in several conditions, including lupus, but many healthy people also have a positive ANA.
The ANA blood test is a common lab test used around the world to screen for autoimmune disorders.
The test is given to people who have symptoms that could be caused by an autoimmune disease, such as joint pain, rash, or unexplained fever. It affects people of all ages, but autoimmune diseases are more common in women.