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ANA test

Also called: Antinuclear antibody, FANA

An ANA test looks for antibodies that can attack the body's own cells. It's used to help diagnose lupus and other autoimmune diseases.

SampleA small tube of blood from a vein in your arm
Fasting?Usually not needed
ResultsSeveral days
Good to knowOne result rarely tells the whole story. Your provider looks at your results together with your symptoms, exam, and other tests.

What the test is

Many healthy people have a low positive ANA, especially women and older adults. A positive result alone doesn't mean you have a disease.

Why it's done

  • Joint pain, rashes, mouth sores, tiredness, or fevers that could be autoimmune

Getting ready and what happens

  • No special preparation is needed.

How the test is done

  • A health worker cleans the skin, puts a band around your arm, and draws blood from a vein with a small needle. It takes a few minutes.

What the results mean

ResultTypical range for adults
NegativeTiter below 1:80 (labs vary)

Normal ranges vary from lab to lab and can differ by age, sex, and pregnancy. Your report lists your lab's own range next to each result. A result a little outside the range is often not a problem.

Positive

Reported as a titer (like 1:160) and a pattern. Higher titers with matching symptoms make an autoimmune disease more likely. More specific antibody tests often follow.

Negative

Makes lupus very unlikely.

Questions to ask your provider

  • What do my results mean for me?
  • Do I need to repeat this test or have other tests?
  • Do I need more specific antibody tests?
  • Should I see a rheumatologist?

Risks

A blood draw is very safe. You may have slight pain or a small bruise where the needle went in.

Related conditions

Related medicines

Related tests

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.