Antinuclear antibody test dosing
Antinuclear antibody test dosing detects some serum proteins called antinuclear antibodies. The immune system produces antibodies to normally fight infection, but if these proteins are different antinuclear antibodies are directed against the body’s own structures. A test dose of positive antinuclear antibodies indicates that the immune system has initiated an attack against its own tissues in medical terms called “autoimmune reaction”. Because connective tissue is often the target of autoimmune reactions, such diseases are called connective tissue or collagen diseases. Examples of diseases: lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis and scleroderma. Test dosing antinuclear antibodies but certainly does not look this connective tissue disease. Antinuclear antibody test dosing is used together with the results of other tests to prove the presence of a suspected autoimmune diseases when appropriate.
Usefulness of the test
Doctor may test for antinuclear antibodies when dosing physical examination, disease history and symptoms indicating the possible presence of an autoimmune disease. Many of the symptoms are non-specific autoimmune diseases, so diagnosis is based on careful clinical examination and interpret the results of medical tests, including the latter being one and antinuclear antibody test dosing.
Other tests necessary for the diagnosis of autoimmune diseases:
– Counts. This review is counting blood figurative elements;
– Urinalysis. Is an analysis of a sample of urine;
– Testing this specific antibodies. Blood samples collected are analyzed to identify the possible presence of antibodies to establish a diagnosis;
– ESR – erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Is an indicator of inflammation in the body.
Preparing for the test dosing antinuclear antibodies
You can eat normal amounts of food and liquid before sampling blood samples. Where will perform other blood tests, the doctor will indicate the exact time they are advised not to eat or drink fluids. It is recommended to show the doctor a list of medications you are taking because they can change the results.
Sampling procedure
Antinuclear antibody test dosing involves taking a blood sample by puncturing a vein, preferably in the arm – cubital vein. The blood is then sent to the laboratory for analysis. Physical activity can be resumed immediately.
Test results
Antinuclear antibodies is indicated by a result so-called “positive”. A positive result does not necessarily indicate the presence of disease. Many people, in fact healthy can have a positive test result, particularly after age 65.
Infectious nature of certain diseases such as mononucleosis, may be associated with antinuclear antibodies. Some medications, such as antihypertensives and anticonvulsants, may also trigger the formation of antinuclear antibodies.
In conclusion, if your doctor suspects a disease of connective tissue, you may be asked to perform a series of tests, including antinuclear antibody test dosing. This analysis can significantly contribute to the diagnosis of autoimmune diseases.