ANA Blot Test

An Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA) test measures the antinuclear antibodies present in the blood. Antibodies are proteins produced by our immune system to fight against foreign substances such as bacterias and viruses. Antinuclear antibodies are also produced by our immune system that attacks and destroys the body’s normal tissues. They target the nucleus of the cells and hence called antinuclear antibodies. The presence of high levels of ANA may indicate an autoimmune disease.

Why this test is performed?

This test is one among many primary tests performed to detect or diagnose the presence of autoimmune disorders. Your doctor may ask you to perform this test if he suspects autoimmune disorders such as Systemic lupus erythematosus (a chronic inflammatory disease that affects many parts of the body), Scleroderma (a rare disease that causes hard and thickened skin, joints etc), Rheumatoid arthritis (a condition that affects the joints), Sjogren’s syndrome (a condition affecting the body’s moisture making glands resulting in dry eyes and dry mouth), Juvenile arthritis (joint disorder in children) etc. You may also be advised to perform this test if you experience symptoms of autoimmune disorders such as fatigue, fever, muscle pain, red butterfly-shaped rash, pain, and swelling in joints etc. This test helps to detect the presence of an autoimmune disorder but does not diagnose the exact disease. Your doctor may ask you to perform a few more additional tests to identify the type of autoimmune disorder.

No Preparation is required