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Positive ANA test

Also called: Positive ANA test, antinuclear antibody positive

A positive ANA blood test means the immune system made antibodies to the body's own cells. Many healthy people test positive; it only matters if you have symptoms of an autoimmune disease.

Healthy people positiveUp to 1 in 5
Linked diseasesLupus, Sjogren's, scleroderma
Next stepReview symptoms

Overview

Low titers (1:40, 1:80) are often normal. Higher titers with symptoms need more tests.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Positive ANA test

Less common

  • Joint pain
  • Rash
  • Tiredness
  • Dry eyes or mouth

Look up a symptom: Pain in many joints

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayFever with rash and joint swelling.
See a doctor soonPositive ANA with symptoms.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Women
  • Older age

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician reviews symptoms.

Questions you may be asked

  • Rash, joint pain, dry eyes, fever

The exam

Joint and skin exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Specific antibody tests:

Treatment

Don't panic.

Self-care

  • Note symptoms over time
  • Keep a symptom diary
  • Use sunscreen if rash appears in the sun

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

  • There is no known way to prevent it. Early checkups help find it sooner.

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a rheumatologist (joint and immune system doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Women: More likely to test positive.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Often means nothing.

Many people with positive ANA never get a disease.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • Do I need to see a rheumatologist?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Positive ANA test

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.