View Related Pages
Anti-Nuclear Antibodies (ANA)
Principle
Autoantibodies present in patient serum bind to homologous nuclear antigens in the substrate (HEp-2 cells) and are detected using fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled anti-human immunoglobulin antibody. A positive ANA result is associated with a v
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
Serum
Collection
Collect 2 mL of serum in a red-top tube (no additive) or serum separator tube (gel barrier).
Processing
Allow blood to clot and centrifuge at 1600 rpm for 10 minutes to separate serum.
Storage and Transport
- 2–10°C: up to 1 week
- –20°C or below: for longer storage
Serum should not be stored in self-defrosting refrigerators or freezers.
Minimum Volume
300 µL of serum
Method
Indirect Immunofluorescence (IF)
Normal Range
Negative
Positive screens will be titered and results will include titer and pattern.
Turnaround Time
7-10 business days
References
Meroni P L, Schur P.H. ANA screening: an old test with new recommendations. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. 2010;69(8):1420–1422.