Description
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order the ENA test to:
• Diagnose autoimmune diseases, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, and mixed connective tissue disease.
• Monitor disease activity in patients with known autoimmune conditions to see if any changes in antibody levels correspond with symptoms.
• Confirm diagnosis: The presence of specific autoantibodies can confirm or help rule out certain autoimmune disorders.
• Evaluate symptoms: Such as joint pain, skin rashes, fatigue, and other systemic symptoms that may suggest an autoimmune condition.
• Assess the risk of complications: For example, some antibodies (like Anti-Ro and Anti-La) are linked to neonatal lupus and Sjogren’s syndrome.
Preparation
• No special preparation is required for the ENA test.
• Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, especially immunosuppressive drugs or antimalarial medications used to treat autoimmune diseases, as they can influence the results.
• The test is done with a blood sample, usually collected from a vein in your arm.
