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Antinuclear Antibodies

What can it be?

Antinuclear antibodies, usually called ANA, are present in a disorder called systemic lupus (lew-pus) erythematosus (ery-theem-uh toe-sus) along with other auto immune diseases. Systemic lupus erythematosus is called SLE, or simply lupus. There is actually a blood test . The job of the defense mechanisms is to make antibodies to guard your system. Antibodies are blood proteins that detect and destroy material produced through diseases. An autoantibody strikes your own body causing an auto immune (au-toe ih mewn) disease.

Why do I want it?

The signs and symptoms of SLE may imitate other diseases. Any organ of one`s body can be the aim of autoantibodies. Your caregiver may order an ANA test if you have. When the ANA is positive, other tests may need to get achieved in order to be sure of the diagnosis. Caregivers will explain the test and why you require it.

How do I get ready for the evaluation?

Your caregiver will tell you when to have your blood test done. The blood test may be performed before or after eating. You may want to avoid taking some medicines. Your caregiver will show you the length of time until your blood is taken you ought to discontinue taking these medicines. Caregivers will let you know as soon as it`s okay to take your regular medicines.

How is the specimen collected?

A caregiver will put a wide rubber band around your arm and tighten it. The skin will be cleaned with alcohol. A small needle will be put to a vein in your hand or arm. The tube has suction to pull the blood into it. When the tube is full, the rubber strap, needle and tube are removed. The caregiver will press a piece of cotton where the needle was removed. You may well be asked to hold the cotton on the website for a couple minutes to help stop the bleeding. Tape may then be put on the cotton on your arm.

Subsequent to the evaluation:

You can remove the tape and cotton in about 20 to 30 minutes. Call your caregiver. Your caregiver will explain what your test results mean that you. Adhere to your caregiver`s instructions.

Care Agreement

You have the right. To help with this plan, you have to learn about your laboratory tests. You can then go over the results. Work with them to decide what care may be applied to deal with you. You have the right.

Further information

Always ask your physician to be sure the information displayed on this page pertains to your circumstances.