A blood test called the antinuclear antibody test checks for antinuclear antibodies in the bloodstream. These antibodies are produced by the immune system to combat foreign substances like bacteria and viruses. However, in some cases, the antinuclear antibody may target healthy cells. This condition specifically targets the nucleus, or center, of the cells. While having some antinuclear antibodies in the bloodstream is normal, an excess of them can indicate an autoimmune disorder.
When to take the antinuclear antibody test?
A doctor may ask an individual to take the antinuclear antibody test if one experiences any of the following symptoms of autoimmune disease:
Persistent or recurring fever
Tiredness
Muscle or joint pain
Swelling
Stiffness
Light sensitivity
Hair loss
Tingling and numbness in the feet or hands
Weakness
Red rash on the bridge of the nose or the cheeks, which looks like a butterfly
What causes antinuclear antibodies?
A doctor may recommend an antinuclear antibody test when one has one of the following conditions:
Rheumatoid arthritis
It is a form of arthritis that affects the joints and results in swelling and pain in the feet, hands, and wrists.
Systematic lupus erythematosus
This is the most prevalent kind of lupus that affects several body parts like the heart, skin, joints, blood vessels, brain, kidneys, and lungs. It is a long-lasting condition that causes antinuclear antibodies detected by the ANA test.
Autoimmune hepatitis
It is a condition where the liver becomes inflamed due to the body’s immune system attacking liver cells.
Addison’s disease
It is a rare condition that results from the body’s insufficient production of specific hormones. It affects the adrenal glands and leads to weakness and fatigue.
Sjögren’s syndrome
This is a rare disorder that affects the glands that produce saliva, tears, and other body parts.
Scleroderma
It is a group of rare diseases that make the skin hard and tight. It can also lead to issues with blood vessels, organs within the body, and the digestive system.
How to prepare for the test?
To perform the antinuclear antibody test, blood samples are required. If it’s only for this test, one can eat and drink normally before the examination. However, fasting for a specific period before the test may be necessary if the same sample is used for other diagnostic tests. A healthcare professional will provide instructions to the patient accordingly. It’s essential to inform the healthcare professional of any current prescription treatments as they may affect the accuracy of the test.
Test procedure
For this antinuclear antibody test, a healthcare professional will take a blood sample by inserting a needle into a vein in one’s arm. This sample goes to the lab for analysis, but one can continue routine activities after the test.
Result
The result will be positive if one has antinuclear antibodies in the blood. However, it is important to note that a positive result does not always indicate the presence of the disease. Many individuals, particularly women over sixty-five, may test positive for ANA without having the disease. Some cancers and infectious diseases are linked to antinuclear antibodies.
If a doctor suspects that antinuclear antibodies are caused by an autoimmune disease, they may suggest additional tests. These tests will help the doctor determine the underlying causes of symptoms and create an effective treatment plan.
