ANA / ENA 18 Antigens (Qualitative) Profile Blot / LIA

The ANA / ENA 18 Antigens (Qualitative) Profile Blot / LIA screens for specific antibodies in the blood that target various components of the body’s cells. This test helps doctors identify autoimmune conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, and other mixed connective tissue disorders.

The ANA / ENA 18 Antigens (Qualitative) Profile Blot / LIA detects specific antibodies or proteins called Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) or autoantibodies. These antibodies, produced by the immune system, mistakenly attack healthy cells and tissues, leading to autoimmune disorders. This test helps in diagnosing various autoimmune conditions, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Sjogren's syndrome, Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Scleroderma, and other mixed connective tissue disorders. 

The ANA / ENA 18 Antigens (Qualitative) Profile Blot / LIA is a confirmatory test that indicates the presence of autoantibodies directed against various nuclear antigens.It is important to note that ANA presence can also be detected in individuals taking certain medications, those with a family history of SLE, as well as healthy and elderly individuals. 

The ANA / ENA 18 Antigens (Qualitative) Profile Blot / LIA analyzes a panel of 18 antigens, including those associated with Extractable Nuclear Antigens (ENA), offering insights into the autoimmune response. Once ANA positivity is established, further testing with an ANA/ENA panel may be warranted using a method called line immunoassay (LIA) to qualitatively analyze antibodies against 18 specific antigens associated with autoimmune disorders. These antigens are important biomarkers for autoimmune diseases such as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Sjogren’s Syndrome, mixed connective tissue disorders, etc. Thus, by identifying specific antigens associated with various autoimmune disorders, ANA/ENA 18 Antigens, Qualitative Profile, Blot/LIA helps in categorizing and understanding the nature of the autoimmune response in an individual’s body. 

The ANA / ENA 18 Antigens (Qualitative) Profile Blot / LIA is typically suggested when a doctor suspects an autoimmune disorder due to symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes, light sensitivity, or inflammation. Also, it may be advised if there are risk factors such as a family history of autoimmune diseases. Additionally, it can be done if other laboratory tests or clinical findings suggest an autoimmune cause for the symptoms. The ANA / ENA 18 Antigens (Qualitative) Profile Blot / LIA is also useful for monitoring disease activity and treatment response in patients already diagnosed with autoimmune diseases. Overall, the decision to recommend the ANA / ENA 18 Antigens (Qualitative) Profile Blot / LIA is based on the patient’s clinical presentation, medical history, and the doctor’s discretion in ruling out other potential causes of symptoms. 

No special preparation is required for this test. Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements that you are taking, as certain medications may affect the test results. Additionally, telling a detailed medical history and discussing symptoms can help the doctor correlate the clinical and laboratory findings. 

The test results may vary depending on various factors like age, medical history, and certain risk factors among others. Abnormal test results require an expert interpretation; therefore, never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results, and always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results. The insights from this test help the doctor tailor an appropriate treatment plan.