A first-line screening test for autoimmune disease.
What is it
The antinuclear antibody (ANA) screen detects antibodies directed against cell nucleus components. It is a primary screening test for systemic autoimmune disease.
Why it's measured
ANA has been studied as a sensitive screen for autoimmune diseases like lupus, scleroderma, and Sjögren's syndrome in published research.
Reference range
Standard laboratory reference
Negative result
Reference ranges vary by laboratory. Your individual reference range will appear on your test report and should be interpreted by your physician in the context of your overall health profile.
What results may indicate
Elevated
A positive result warrants further evaluation, including ANA pattern and titer.
Lower
A negative result is generally considered favorable.
These associations are general. They are not a personal diagnosis or prediction. Discuss your individual results with your physician in the context of your full health profile.
When it's measured
Used when systemic autoimmune disease is being evaluated.
Related markers
Common questions
The antinuclear antibody (ANA) screen detects antibodies directed against cell nucleus components. It is a primary screening test for systemic autoimmune disease.
It's one of the markers used to build a fuller picture of your health. On its own it tells you very little, so it's most informative when reviewed alongside related markers.
It's measured from a standard blood draw at Quest or LabCorp. ANA Screen is one of the markers included in the OPTML Apex Panel, where your results are read across systems and reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Reference ranges vary by laboratory, and a single value rarely tells the whole story. Review your result with a physician in the context of your other markers, symptoms, and history.
ANA Screen is one signal among many. Answer a few quick questions and we’ll point you to the panel that fits.
Measured in
A complete look at your heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and longevity systems — drawn at Quest or LabCorp, reviewed by a U.S.-licensed physician.
Explore the Apex Panel →This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition and do not replace the advice of a healthcare provider. OPTML does not offer medical advice, a diagnosis, medical treatment, or any form of medical opinion.