An antinuclear antibody test looks for autoimmune diseases such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
The ANA test is ordered when someone shows signs and symptoms that are associated with a systemic autoimmune disorder.
A positive ANA test result means that autoantibodies are present. In a person with signs and symptoms, this suggests the presence of an autoimmune disease, but further evaluation is required to assist in making a final diagnosis.
