The ANA with reflex blood test is used to detect antibodies that are created by a person’s immune system. When there is an autoimmune disorder present, then there will be an increased level of antibodies present in the blood in a majority of individuals. It shows that there is a systemic issue involved and is often one of the tests used to determine if lupus may be present.
ANAs, or antinuclear antibodies, are only produced when the immune system mistakes cells in the body for invading organisms. If a positive test result is received, then there are several tests that provide more specificity to the condition so a diagnosis can be achieved. There are two common testing methods that are used by laboratories to determine test results and each is considered accurate.
When To Speak With a Doctor
Anyone who is displaying the signs or symptoms of a potential autoimmune disorder will have the ANA with reflex blood test ordered. The issue with these symptoms is that many are unspecific and vague, often making it seem like an individual is suffering from a common illness instead of an autoimmune disease. That’s why if these symptoms are experienced without relief, it is time to speak with a medical provider.
Most autoimmune disorders will present with a low-grade fever once a response has been triggered. Having a persistent level of fatigue and a feeling of muscle weakness is also common. There may be pain in the joints that is similar to arthritis and it may even become better with movement. If lupus is involved, there may be a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose.
Some people may also experience paresthesia in the feet and hands, muscle pain, or hair loss. The skin may become more sensitive to light and there m ay be inflammation present anywhere in the body, including the blood vessels and the lining of the heart.
What Do My Test Results Mean?
A positive ANA with reflex test result indicates that there are antibodies present within the blood. When combined with the signs and symptoms that trigger a visit to a medical provider, this can be an indication that there is an autoimmune disorder present. Most positive results need to have further testing in order to make a final determination on how to properly treat the condition.
Most test results are communicated as being “normal” or being “positive.” An “abnormal” test equates to a positive test result.
About 95% of people who are eventually diagnosed with systemic lupus have a positive ANA with reflex blood test result. Other tests can confirm this diagnosis.
Certain conditions may also cause a positive test result. The most common is lupus that has been triggered by medication, most commonly those prescribed as anticonvulsants. Hydralazine, isoniazid, procainamide are commonly associated with drug-induced lupus. Stopping the medication will usually resolve this health issue.
Sjorgen syndrome will create a positive test result in up to 70% of those who have this condition that creates dry eyes and a dry mouth. Most people who develop this syndrome are above the age of 40 and it is much more common in women.
Sclerodema, Raynaud syndrome, and certain forms of arthritis may also cause a positive test result. By reviewing an individual’s medical history and then comparing this information to the signs and symptoms being experienced, the blood test results can be correctly interpreted.
Negative results make it unlikely that lupus will be diagnosed. A negative test result, however, doesn’t fully exclude the other autoimmune health concerns that may be present.
Here’s What You Need to Know
Once there are antibodies in the body that can be detected by the ANA with reflex blood test, then those antibodies will always stay there at some level of concentration. Test results are typically still in the normal range, however, unless the autoimmune disorder has triggered a physical response.
It is possible for a medical provider to see a positive test and not confirm a lupus diagnosis. There are several different types of lupus in addition to the systemic version, so confirmation of the autoimmune issue must happen before a treatment plan can be developed.
The ANA with reflex blood test results explained here are often the first step taken in a journey toward a specific diagnosis. If the symptoms listed in this content are experienced for a prolonged period of time or it seems like there’s an illness that isn’t getting better, then it is time to schedule an appointment with a medical provider. Then use this guide to determine if this blood test is right for you.