What are ANA?
Autoantibodies directed against components of the cell nucleus. They may be found in autoimmune diseases but also in healthy people, particularly at low titres and with age.
What is assessed?
Titre, pattern, specific antibodies and, above all, whether compatible symptoms or signs are present.
When to seek advice
When a positive ANA comes with arthritis, Raynaud's phenomenon, skin lesions, persistent dryness or other abnormal tests.
Related content
A hot, very painful and swollen joint, especially with fever, requires urgent medical attention.