Our laboratory offers a comprehensive range of professional lab tests that cover various aspects of your health. We highly recommend consulting with our healthcare professional for more detailed information and guidance on which tests are most appropriate for you. Our objective is to provide you with the necessary information to make well-informed decisions regarding your health and well-being.

There are over 80 types of autoimmune diseases, making diagnosis challenging. In the U.S., more than 24 million people are affected, with an additional 8 million at risk due to auto-antibodies.

Autoimmune testing measures specific antibodies that indicate when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own cells. Common autoimmune conditions include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, scleroderma, Sjögren’s syndrome, lupus, celiac disease, and type 1 diabetes.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, medical history, blood tests, gut microbiome assessment, and antibody testing. Additional tests like x-rays, biopsies, MRIs, or CT scans may also be needed. Symptoms often include fatigue, joint pain, skin issues, abdominal pain, fever, and swollen glands.

What Do Autoimmune Tests Measure?

A variety of comprehensive autoimmune testing panels are available through Anchor Medical Center. Here are some key tests:

ANA Screen

The ANA Screen detects clinically relevant autoantibodies in serum, helping to identify autoimmune conditions.

  • Results: Typically available 7-10 business days after the lab receives samples.
  • Note: Services are self-pay only and not eligible for insurance claims, including Medicare/Medicaid.

ANA + 11 ANA Components

The ANA Screen detects clinically relevant autoantibodies in serum, which can indicate various autoimmune conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren’s syndrome, scleroderma, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Includes Testing for:

  • Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA)
  • Anti-Centromere
  • Anti-Chromatin
  • Anti-Jo-1
  • Anti-RIBOP
  • Anti-RNP
  • Anti-SSA
  • Anti-SSB
  • Anti-Scl-70
  • Anti-Sm
  • Anti-Sm/RNP
  • Anti-dsDNA

Results: Typically available 7-10 business days after the lab receives samples.
Note: Services are self-pay only and not eligible for insurance claims, including Medicare/Medicaid.

AutoImmune Analyzer

This test measures antinuclear antibodies and related markers to assist in diagnosing autoimmune diseases. Antinuclear antibodies can indicate conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren’s syndrome, scleroderma, mixed connective tissue disease, drug-induced lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Includes Testing for:

  • ANA (Antinuclear Antibodies)
  • Anti-Centromere
  • Anti-Chromatin
  • Anti-Jo-1
  • Anti-RIBOP
  • Anti-RNP
  • Anti-SSA
  • Anti-SSB
  • Anti-Scl-70
  • Anti-Sm
  • Anti-Sm/RNP
  • Anti-TPO
  • Anti-dsDNA
  • Complement C3
  • Complement C4
  • RF IgM (Rheumatoid Factor)

Results: Typically available 7-10 business days after the lab receives samples.
Note: Services are self-pay only and not eligible for insurance claims, including Medicare/Medicaid.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Panel (ANA, RF, CCP)

This panel is used to aid in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

Biomarkers

ANA

Anti-CCP IgG

RF IgM

Results: Typically available 7-10 business days after the lab receives samples.

Arthritis Panel

This test measures several biomarkers to help diagnose arthritis.

Biomarkers

ANA

C-Reactive Protein

ESR

RF IgM

Uric Acid

Results: Typically available 7-10 business days after the lab receives samples.
Note: Services are self-pay only and not eligible for insurance claims, including Medicare/Medicaid.

Rheumatoid Factor

This is a single-marker test measuring rheumatoid factor. It is used for the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and in monitoring the therapeutic response to the disease.

Biomarker: RF IgM

Results: Typically available 7-10 business days after the lab receives samples.
Note: Services are self-pay only and not eligible for insurance claims, including Medicare/Medicaid.

Treatment Plans for Autoimmune Conditions

Autoimmune testing aids in diagnosis and helps monitor treatment effectiveness. Treatment typically aims to suppress the immune response to reduce pain and inflammation. Common treatment strategies include:

  • Gut Health: Restoring balance with probiotics, fiber, and essential nutrients.
  • Diet Changes: Eliminating foods that trigger immune responses.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Nutrients: Incorporating nutrients that soothe the immune system and lower inflammation.
  • Herbal Supplements: Using herbs known for their anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Exercise and Relaxation: Engaging in regular physical activity and relaxation techniques to lower stress and inflammation.
  • Adequate Sleep: Prioritizing quality sleep for overall health and recovery.
References
  1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2832720/
  2. https://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/about_us/sponsored_resources/Quest_%20ANA-IFA_Monograph.pdf
  3. https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/tests-treatments-medications/medical-tests/autoimmune-disease-tests
  4. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/what-are-common-symptoms-of-autoimmune-disease
  5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ana-test/about/pac-20385204#:~:text=In%20most%20cases%2C%20a%20positive,even%20when%20they%27re%20healthy.
  6. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/immunoglobulins-blood-test/
  7. https://www.ifm.org/news-insights/ai-innovations-treatment-autoimmune-disease/
  8. https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/conditions/autoimmune/index.cfm