🔬 What is this Test?
The Anti-Nuclear Antibody (ANA) Titres Test measures the concentration (titer) of autoantibodies that target the nucleus of the body’s cells. This test helps assess autoimmune diseases, such as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Sjögren’s Syndrome, and Rheumatoid Arthritis.
📊 Normal Ranges:
✅ Negative: ≤ 1:40 (No significant autoimmune activity)
⚠️ Low Titer: 1:80 (May be seen in healthy individuals)
❌ Positive (High Titer): ≥ 1:160 (Suggests possible autoimmune disease, requiring further tests)
🎯 Purpose of the Test:
✔️ Diagnose autoimmune diseases such as lupus, scleroderma, or Sjögren’s syndrome
✔️ Assess disease severity and monitor progression
✔️ Identify possible causes of unexplained symptoms (joint pain, fatigue, rashes, etc.)
⚠️ Why Might You Need This Test?
Persistent joint or muscle pain
Chronic fatigue or unexplained fevers
Skin rashes, including the lupus “butterfly rash”
Sensitivity to sunlight (photosensitivity)
Dry eyes and mouth (possible Sjögren’s Syndrome)
📌 Understanding the Results:
Low Titer (≤ 1:80): May be seen in healthy individuals
Moderate Titer (1:160 - 1:320): May indicate autoimmune activity—further tests needed
High Titer (≥ 1:640): Strongly suggests autoimmune disease—requires additional testing (e.g., anti-dsDNA, anti-Sm, or ENA panel)
🔬 Additional Notes:
Higher titers indicate stronger autoimmune activity
The pattern of ANA staining (homogeneous, speckled, centromere, etc.) helps identify specific conditions
ANA positivity alone does NOT confirm disease—clinical evaluation and additional tests are required