Different ANA patterns may correspond with different characteristics of lupus.ĪNA is a screening test, since almost all patients with lupus have a strongly positive test. Many laboratories also measure pattern or the way the test looks when viewed through a microscope. ANA titers at higher levels more likely indicate the presence of autoimmune disease. ANA of 0, 1+ or 2+, or at titers less than 1:80 (diluted 80 times) usually do not indicate a significant problem.

ANA is usually measured as 0 to 4+ or as a titer (the number of times a blood sample can be diluted and still be positive). Laboratory tests for autoantibodies in lupus Antinuclear antibody (ANA)Īntinuclear antibody (ANA) autoantibodies, or antibodies produced by the immune system that attack the body’s own cells, are a hallmark of lupus. To guide therapy: Laboratory tests help physicians make treatment recommendations and adjust for changing symptoms.To monitor: Laboratory tests help physicians assess the severity of the disease, the efficacy of treatment, and medication-related side effects.Laboratory tests are used to establish a baseline at the time of diagnosis and to predict whether lupus is likely to improve or worsen. To determine prognosis: Physicians want to understand how a patient’s disease will progress.Physicians use medical history, physical examination and laboratory findings to confirm the diagnosis. To diagnose: Lupus symptoms often mimic those of other diseases and vice versa.

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