What are Autoimmunity Biomarker?
Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA) Pattern
This test looks at the specific pattern of antibodies staining on cells. Different patterns—like speckled or homogeneous—can help doctors identify the type of autoimmune disease you might have. It’s only analyzed if your ANA screen is already positive.
Example: Imagine the ANA pattern as the fingerprint of an autoimmune response—it helps doctors tell which condition is causing trouble.
How it’s measured: Blood test with fluorescent microscopy to identify specific nuclear staining patterns.
Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA) Screen
This test checks for antibodies that attack the nuclei of your own cells. A positive result means your immune system may be attacking healthy tissue, often seen in autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
Example: ANA is like catching friendly fire—your immune system targets your own team by mistake.
How it’s measured: Blood test that screens for the presence of antinuclear antibodies.
Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA) Titer
This measures how much ANA is in your blood by diluting the sample until no antibodies are detected. Higher titers mean more antibodies, which may signal autoimmune activity. Only performed if the ANA screen is positive.
Example: A titer is like turning down the volume on a noisy speaker—how low do you go before it gets quiet? The louder it is (higher titer), the more intense the immune response.
How it’s measured: Blood test that uses serial dilutions to determine the concentration of antinuclear antibodies.
Celiac Disease (Comprehensive Panel)
This panel screens for autoimmune reactions to gluten. Even if you don’t feel symptoms, untreated celiac disease can damage your immune system and lead to other serious conditions like Type 1 diabetes or osteoporosis.
Example: Celiac is like a silent fire—your immune system burns down your insides every time you eat gluten, even if you don’t feel it.
How it’s measured: Blood panel that includes multiple tests for antibodies related to gluten sensitivity.
Rheumatoid Factor (RF)
This test checks for rheumatoid factors—antibodies that sometimes attack healthy joints. High RF levels can signal autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis or Sjögren’s syndrome, even before symptoms start.
Example: Rheumatoid factor is like early rust in your joints—it shows up before things start creaking.
How it’s measured: Blood test that measures the concentration of rheumatoid factor antibodies.
