Core IM | Internal Medicine Podcast #112 ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) Test: 5 Pearls Segment
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Oct 5, 2022 AI Snips
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ANA Explained
- ANAs are autoantibodies targeting antigens within the cell nucleus, like DNA and RNA.
- Dysregulated apoptosis, or disordered cell death, likely exposes these nuclear antigens, triggering autoantibody production.
Positive ANA Significance
- A positive ANA doesn't always indicate autoimmune disease.
- Up to 20% of healthy individuals, especially women, can test positive, limiting its use as a screening tool.
ANA Titer Interpretation
- Higher ANA titers generally suggest a greater risk, but false positives exist even at high levels.
- A low titer doesn't rule out autoimmune disease, especially with a compelling history and physical.