The antinuclear antibody test

Preview The great majority of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus have positive antinuclear antibody (ANA) test results. However, other rheumatic and nonrheumatic diseases, certain drugs, infections, and pregnancy can also cause positive results. Thus, a negative ANA test is sometimes more helpful than a positive one when evaluating patients who do not clearly meet diagnostic criteria for rheumatic disease. The authors summarize appropriate use of the ANA test and how to interpret results.