Test Code LAB4005 Antinuclear Antibody (ANA), Serum
Methodology
Indirect Immunofluorescence
Testing Algorithm:
If ANA qualitative result is positive, then ANA quantitative titer will be performed at an additional charge.
Literature References:
1. Peeples C. Fluorescent ANA’s and beyond! INOVA Diagnostics, Inc.; 2004.
2. Butcher B, Fritzler MJ, Gordon T, et al. Reference sera for antinuclear antibodies: II. Further definition of antibody specificities in international antinuclear antibody reference sera by immunofluorescence and western blotting. Am Coll Rheumatol 1997;40:413-18.
Performing Laboratory
Barnes-Jewish Hospital Laboratory
Specimen Requirements
Specimen Type: Serum
Container/Tube: Plain red top
Specimen Volume: Full tube
Specimen Transport Temperature
Ambient
Reference Values
Negative
Note: 1. Serum is assayed against HEp-2 (human epithelial) cultured cells.
2. A significantly positive ANA result is defined as positive nuclear fluorescence at a titer of ≥1:80.
3. Fifteen percent of normal people >65 years have significantly positive ANA results. Five percent or less of normal people ≤65 years have significantly positive ANA results.
Literature References:
1. Tan EM. Range of antinuclear antibodies “healthy” individuals. Am Coll Rheumatol 1997;40:1601-11.
2. Smolen JS, Butcher B, Fritzler MJ, et al. Reference sera for antinuclear antibodies: II. further definition of antibody specificities in international antinuclear antibody reference sera by immunofluorescence and western blotting. Am Coll Rheumatol 1997;40:413-18.
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Friday
Cut-off time: 0800
Turnaround Time:
STAT: not available
Routine: results available the day of testing
Test Classification and CPT Coding
86038-ANA screen
86039-ANA titer (if appropriate)
Additional Information
For BJH Laboratory Use Only
Alternate Tube:
SST Red top
Gold Top (serum SST)
Analyte Stability:
See Analyte Stability Chart.
Laboratory Processing Instructions:
Test performed in BJH Core Lab. Processed by automated line and aliquot stored refrigerated for batch analysis. Completed specimens are stored refrigerated for 5 days.