ANA testing by IFA is the gold standard for detecting antinuclear antibodies linked to lupus.
Lupus Panel
- Secure and Confidential Results
- Over 4,500 CLIA-Certified Labs U.S. Labs
- Most Results in 1-3 Days
- 110% Price Guarantee
About Our Lupus Panel
The Lupus Panel is a specialized blood test designed to help identify Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), the most common and complex form of lupus. SLE is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs and systems, often presenting with symptoms that fluctuate in severity and are difficult to diagnose without targeted testing.
In lupus, the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, triggering widespread inflammation that may impact the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, blood vessels, and brain. Because symptoms can vary greatly from person to person and often overlap with other conditions, laboratory testing plays a critical role in uncovering autoimmune activity early.
This panel focuses on detecting antinuclear antibodies (ANA), a hallmark finding in lupus, using indirect immunofluorescence (IFA)—the gold standard method for ANA detection. When ANA is positive, reflex testing automatically provides additional disease-specific antibody insights, offering a more precise and informative assessment.
By combining sensitive screening with targeted follow-up markers, the Lupus Panel helps clarify whether lupus may be the underlying cause of symptoms, supports earlier diagnosis, and guides next steps for care, monitoring, and treatment planning.
What Is Included In This Test?
This panel includes advanced antibody testing to evaluate autoimmune activity associated with lupus:
-
ANA Test by IFA (Indirect Immunofluorescence): Detects antinuclear antibodies using the gold standard method for autoimmune screening
-
ANA Reflex Testing (if ANA is positive):
-
ANA titer and fluorescence pattern
-
Double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) antibodies
-
Smith (Sm) antibodies
-
Chromatin antibodies
-
These combined results help determine the presence, pattern, and intensity of autoimmune activity commonly seen in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.
Who Should Consider This Test?
This panel is ideal for individuals experiencing symptoms or risk factors commonly associated with lupus.
You should consider this test if you:
- Have persistent joint pain, fatigue, or unexplained fevers
- Experience skin rashes, especially those triggered by sun exposure
- Have kidney, neurological, or cardiovascular symptoms of unclear origin
- Have a family history of lupus or autoimmune disease
- Are monitoring disease activity or flare risk after a lupus diagnosis
Early testing can lead to faster diagnosis, more targeted treatment, and better long-term outcomes.
Convenient, No-Appointment Testing
To complete your test:
- Order online through our website
- Use the lab locator to find a nearby testing location
- Walk in; no appointment required
- Access your results securely in your HealthLabs.com account within one to three business days
110% Price Guarantee!
If you find the same test for a lower price from a comparable provider, contact us. We not only match the price, we beat it by an additional 10 percent of the difference.
Common Questions:
-
What makes the ANA IFA test important?
-
4. What does reflex testing mean?
If ANA is positive, additional antibody tests are automatically performed to provide more detailed diagnostic information.
-
Will anyone see my results besides me?
Your results are stored in your secure online account. They are not shared with anyone else. If you choose, you can print or download them to share with your own doctor.
-
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is not required for this panel. You can eat and drink normally unless your doctor has given you other instructions.
-
Can I talk to someone about my results?
Yes. If your results come back abnormal or if you simply have questions, our team is here to support you. You can text our Patient Services team at 1800-579-3914.
-
Can I use insurance to pay for this test?
In order to ensure your privacy, we do not bill insurance directly, but you may use HSA or FSA funds. This keeps your results and testing completely private from insurers. We can also provide you with an itemized receipt for insurance reimbursement purposes if you need it.
-
What type of sample is required for this test?
This test requires a simple blood draw. No urine samples, swabs, or physical exams are involved.