This serum test detects the presence or absence of auto-antibody to various nuclear antigens. Testing is indicated in cases of suspected systemic lupus erythematosus, where loss of immune autoregulation results in the production of antibodies against a range of membrane and soluble antigens. The most characteristic of these are the antinuclear antibodies directed against double-stranded DNA, RNA, nucleoprotein and histone-related antigens. The test is mostly applicable to dogs and a negative result should not rule SLE out. A cat ANA test is available. ANA can be non-specific, present in a number of disease states, induced by some therapeutic drugs, as well as occasionally being present in normal individuals.
Species:
Canine, feline
Specimen:
Serum (minimum volume 5 ml)
Container:
Plain (red top) or Gel tube
Collection protocol:
Standard venepuncture