Anti-Nuclear Antibody Test In Kolkata

The body’s immune system produces antibodies to counter foreign antigens that can harm the body. Many blood tests for confirming viral or bacterial diseases look for antigens or antibodies to determine which disease is contracted.

In the case of autoimmune disease, the immune system considers the healthy cells of the body to be harmful antigens and thus, produces specific antibodies to counter these cells. This is why these antibodies are also known as anit-nuclear antibodies.

The presence of autoantibodies are also possible in people who are not suffering from the listed disorders. The presence of autoantibodies and having slightly elevated ANA levels are also seen in healthy individuals. Senior citizens too have tested positive for ANA. This is due to age. But, if the levels are higher than what can be considered as ‘traces’, it can indicate autoimmune disorder.

The autoimmune diseases that are usually counted under this test are:
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Sjögren’s syndrome
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Polymyositis and dermatomyositis
Raynaud’s phenomenon
Mixed connective tissue disease
Drug-induced lupus
Autoimmune hepatitis

The anti-nuclear antibody or ANA test is done by checking a blood sample of the person. The test itself poses no risks, especially when done by an experienced phlebotomist. In terms of side effects, the process of drawing blood can cause slight discomfort and lead to the development of a bruise. People who are already anemic can feel dizzy and nauseous when the blood is taken. Rest and intaking vitamins will help treat these conditions.

Yes, Polyarteritis nodosa is an autoimmune disorder. This is a rare condition and in this disease, the blood vessels throughout the body start to swell up. This causes poor blood supply. When detected early, it is a treatable condition.

Lupus or systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack healthy tissues and organs. This condition is more common in women. While it is genetically inherited, lupus can stay dormant, unless triggered by factors like sunlight or medications.