ANA testing is used to help diagnose autoimmune disorders, such as lupus. It measures the levels of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in the blood. A positive result indicates that there is an increased level of these antibodies, which can be a sign of autoimmune disease.
What is ANA Testing?
ANA testing is a blood test that measures the levels of antinuclear antibodies in the body. ANA stands for antinuclear antibodies, and these are proteins that are produced by the body to fight off foreign invaders, such as bacteria or viruses. However, when the immune system mistakenly identifies part of the body as an invader, it can produce antibodies in an attempt to attack it.
What Conditions Does ANA Testing Show a Positive Result?
ANA testing can be used to diagnose a number of autoimmune diseases, including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, Sjogren's syndrome, and polymyositis. A positive result indicates that there is an increased level of antinuclear antibodies in the body, which can be a sign of an autoimmune disorder.
What Else Can ANA Testing Show?
In addition to diagnosing autoimmune diseases, ANA testing can also be used to monitor the progression of certain diseases and to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. It can also be used to help diagnose other conditions, such as infections, cancer, and liver disease.
Conclusion
ANA testing is a useful tool for diagnosing and monitoring a number of autoimmune diseases. A positive result indicates that there is an increased level of antinuclear antibodies in the body, which can be a sign of an autoimmune disorder. The test can also be used to help diagnose other conditions, such as infections, cancer, and liver disease.