Anti-Nuclear Antibodies - Titre

Anti-Nuclear Antibodies (ANA) titre measures the concentration of autoantibodies that target components within cell nuclei, indicating potential autoimmune activity in the body. The titre represents how much the blood sample can be diluted while still detecting these antibodies, with higher titres suggesting stronger autoimmune responses.

📋 About This Biomarker

Anti-Nuclear Antibodies (ANA) – Titre measures how much the blood can be diluted before ANA antibodies are no longer detectable. A higher titre means more antibodies are present, which can suggest a stronger immune system response often seen in autoimmune conditions like lupus. The titre helps indicate how active or significant the immune response might be.

🎯 Why We Test This

Anti-Nuclear Antibodies (ANA) titre testing is valuable for diagnosing autoimmune disorders where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. This test helps identify conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren's syndrome, scleroderma, and mixed connective tissue disease. Healthcare providers typically order ANA testing when patients present with unexplained symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes, or organ dysfunction that could indicate autoimmune disease. The titre measurement indicates the concentration of antibodies present, with higher titres generally suggesting more significant autoimmune activity and helping guide treatment decisions.

⚠️ What Affects It

Factors influencing Anti-Nuclear Antibodies (ANA) titre include autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren's syndrome, systemic sclerosis, and mixed connective tissue disease, which typically cause elevated titres. Age can affect ANA levels, with elderly individuals more likely to have low-positive titres without clinical significance. Certain medications including hydralazine, procainamide, isoniazid, and some biologics can induce drug-related ANA positivity. Infections, particularly viral infections like Epstein-Barr virus and hepatitis, can temporarily elevate ANA titres. Other conditions such as liver disease, thyroid disorders, and certain malignancies may also influence ANA levels, while stress, hormonal changes, and genetic predisposition can contribute to ANA production.

📈 How to Improve

For elevated Anti-Nuclear Antibodies (ANA) titres, focus on reducing systemic inflammation through an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and whole foods while avoiding processed foods and potential triggers. Managing stress through meditation, adequate sleep, and regular gentle exercise can help modulate immune system activity. Address underlying autoimmune conditions with appropriate medical treatment, consider vitamin D supplementation if deficient, and avoid known environmental triggers like excessive sun exposure or certain medications. Regular monitoring with a rheumatologist ensures proper management of autoimmune activity and prevents disease progression.
Also known as: Titre