This test is used to detect autoantibodies that are commonly found in people with autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or Sjögren’s syndrome. Autoimmune conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s tissues. If you have unexplained symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, or dry eyes, this test can help identify potential underlying causes.
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What's in the test?
Autoimmunity
Anti CEN - P Antibodies
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Anti Jo1 Antibodies
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Anti La SS - B Antibodies
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Anti Ro SS - A Antibodies
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Anti Scl 70 Antibodies
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Anti Sm Antibodies
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Anti U1RNP Antibodies
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Extractable nuclear antigen
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An extractable nuclear antigen (ENA) screen looks for the presence of one or more autoantibodies in the blood that react with proteins in the cell nucleus. Autoantibodies are produced when the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks the body's own tissues which can cause inflammation, tissue damage and symptoms associated with an autoimmune disorder. The results of an ENA screen can help to detect and distinguish between different autoimmune disorders.
How to prepare for your test
Test limitations
A positive ENA test can occur in individuals without autoimmune diseases, leading to false positives and requiring further clinical evaluation.
Compared to an ANA test, which screens for a broader range of nuclear antibodies, an ENA test may miss some cases of autoimmune diseases, especially if the levels of specific ENA antibodies are low.
The presence of certain antibodies may not always correlate directly with disease severity or activity.
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FAQs
What tests are included?
This panel includes tests for different antibodies, including:
- -Anti-RNP antibodies to detect mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD)
- -Anti-Sm antibodies for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
- -Anti-SS-A (Ro) and anti-SS-B (La) antibodies for Sjögren's syndrome
- -Scl-70 antibodies for scleroderma (systemic sclerosis)
- -Anti-Jo-1 for polymyositis
Titre levels are only provided for positive results.
Who should take this test?
This test is usually requested following a positive ANA test for people with signs and symptoms of an autoimmune disorder.
What is an ENA blood test?
Our Extractable Nuclear Antibodies (ENA) Blood Test detects the presence of one or more autoantibodies in the blood that react with proteins in the cell nucleus.