Cindy from Calgary asks: I tested positive for the ANA blood test. How can I get a confirmed diagnosis and treatment right away, if confirmed?
An ANA test is a non-specific test which may be associated with autoimmune diseases. In rheumatology, that means systemic lupus or other connective tissues diseases. An ANA test does not confirm a diagnosis. In fact, 10% of the general population has a positive ANA test and the majority – more than 95% of them – do not have and will never have lupus. To diagnose lupus or another connective tissue disease, it requires you and your doctor or rheumatologist to review your symptoms and overall health, complete a physical exam, and then pursue investigations based on that information.
Posted: January 5, 2019
Tagged: ANA, investigation, lupus