Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA), Direct LabCorp

This test detects the amount of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in the bloodstream. Our immune systems usually make antibodies to help fight infection. In contrast, antinuclear antibodies can often attack our body's own tissues-specifically targeting each cell's nucleus. In most cases, a positive ANA test can indicate if one's immune system has launched a misdirected attack on their own tissue; in other words, an autoimmune reaction. Some may have positive ANA tests even when they are healthy. A doctor may order an ANA test if he or she suspects you have an autoimmune disease such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or scleroderma.