What does positive ana mean

The ANA test is a highly sensitive but nonspecific test that can help rule out autoimmune conditions such as lupus. A doctor administers the test in a very similar way to other blood tests, and the person does not need to make special preparations. While doctors often use the test to confirm a diagnosis of lupus, it can provide false-negative and -positive results. Lupus is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system targets healthy cells and tissues in the body.

With ongoing treatment, a person with lupus…. A new large-scale study in the United Kingdom finds a small but significant increased risk of dementia for individuals with an autoimmune disease.

Lupus blogs are written by experts and those with the disease to help support others with a similar diagnosis. We have compiled the 10 best lupus…. What to expect during an ANA test. Medically reviewed by Vincent J. What is the ANA blood test? Lupus and the ANA blood test Symptoms of lupus What to expect Positive diagnosis Takeaway The antinuclear autoantibodies blood test identifies a specific protein in the bloodstream.

Lupus and the ANA blood test. Symptoms of lupus. What to expect. Share on Pinterest Confirm any necessary preparations for the ANA blood test with a doctor ahead of time.

Positive diagnosis. Latest news Scientists identify new cause of vascular injury in type 2 diabetes. Adolescent depression: Could school screening help? Remember, a positive ANA does not equal an autoimmune disease. But also remember that if it is determined that you do have an autoimmune disease, there are treatment options for it.

The next step is to see a rheumatologist who will determine if additional testing is needed and who will make sure you will get the best care for your particular situation. View our live stream Medicare Class schedule. Featured Article. Time to Get your Flu Vaccine. Sign-Up for Our Newsletter. An ANA test requires a sample of your blood. If your sample is being used only for an ANA test, you can eat and drink normally before the test.

If your blood sample will be used for additional tests, you might need to fast for a time before the test. Your doctor will give you instructions. Certain drugs affect the accuracy of the test, so bring your doctor a list of the medications you take. For an ANA test, a member of your health care team takes a sample of blood by inserting a needle into a vein in your arm. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis. You can return to your usual activities immediately.

The presence of antinuclear antibodies is a positive test result. But having a positive result doesn't mean you have a disease. Many people with no disease have positive ANA tests — particularly women older than Some infectious diseases and cancers have been associated with the development of antinuclear antibodies, as have certain drugs.