Pathology tests database

Sample and container requirements

Serum

Minimum volume required

4 ml Blood

Special requirements

none

Patient preparation

None

Sample viability

Store at 4oC

Turnaround time

5 days

Reference range

Negative

Clinical guidance

The detection of antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) has long been an important tool in the diagnosis of systemic rheumatic diseases. The antigens used in their detection are purified by the saline extraction of human or animal nuclei, this has led to them being called extractable nuclear antigens (ENA). The most commonly measured ENA specifications are anti-SS-A/Ro, anti-SS-B/La, anti-Sm D, anti-RNP anti-Jo-1 and anti-SCL-70. Individual ENA types are performed if the ENA screen is positive.

Notes