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Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA)

What Are Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA)?

Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are a type of autoantibody produced by the immune system that mistakenly targets the body’s own cells, specifically the nuclei within those cells. ANA is commonly found in individuals with various autoimmune conditions.

Role of ANA in Autoimmune Disease Detection

ANA testing is a key screening tool used to evaluate patients suspected of having systemic autoimmune disorders, also known as connective tissue diseases. These conditions involve widespread immune activity affecting multiple organs and tissues.

Conditions Commonly Associated with ANA

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Sjögren’s syndrome

Scleroderma

Polymyositis and dermatomyositis

Mixed connective tissue disease

ANA may also be present in low levels in healthy individuals or in those with non-autoimmune conditions, making it essential to interpret results in a broader clinical context.

When ANA Testing Is Recommended

Persistent fatigue, joint pain, or muscle aches

Skin rashes, especially when worsened by sunlight

Unexplained inflammation or multi-system symptoms

Positive family history of autoimmune disorders

ANA Blood Testing in Slough and Surrounding Areas

Private ANA testing is available in Slough, Windsor, Langley, Maidenhead, and nearby Berkshire areas. If you're experiencing symptoms of autoimmune disease or require a thorough immune system evaluation, local diagnostic services in Slough offer accurate ANA screening to support early diagnosis and tailored treatment planning.

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