ANA (Antinuclear antibody)

Pathology category

Immunology

Code

ANA

Referral code

RHH

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Test information

This is used as a screening test for Lupus (SLE) and certain other connective tissue diseases. Strong positive results (titres of 1:320 and above) may be clinically significant, particularly with some staining patterns. For example: Speckled pattern – connective tissue disease, SLE; Homogenous pattern – SLE, and drug induced lupus; Nucleolar pattern – scleroderma or sicca syndrome. Positive results from the screen are titred the following day

Guidelines

Pre-analytical

Reference range

Tube type

Tube type info

SST, Plain or Lithium Heparin

Special requirements

Plasma or Serum

Minimum volume

Assay frequency

Daily

TAT Inpatient (urgent)

TAT Inpatient

TAT GP/Outpatient

up to 7 days. Urgent assay is available.

Referral lab

Immunology Russells Hall Hospital