Antinuclear Antibodies

Anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) are possible signs of autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, scleroderma, Sjögren’s syndrome, juvenile arthritis, or polymyositis and dermatomyositis. White blood cells in the body’s immune system make antibodies to spot and attack foreign agents that cause infections or disease. Sometimes, antibodies target normal proteins in our body by mistake. This can trigger inflammation that leads to joint or tissue damage. These antibodies are called autoantibodies. Everyone has small amounts of autoantibodies. ANAs are one type of autoantibody. A positive ANA blood test means autoantibodies are present, but it’s not a sure sign of an autoimmune disease.

The information in the diseases and conditions fact sheets is for general education only. Please consult your rheumatologist for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment of your unique medical condition. To learn more about ANA and up to date guidance, please visit American College of Rheumatology from the following link.