Is my ANA result indicative of lupus?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have started to experience weird sensations around my body after my father died three years ago. I would often get sudden stabbing head pains, numbness in face, painful and sometimes stiff fingers especially, after waking up. More recently, I get heart palpitations, which force me to cough to relieve. I have already been to multiple doctors about my situation, and they have almost all ruled it out to be a case of anxiety due to the loss of my father, but my symptoms have been getting worse. I fear that I may have another illness that is being overlooked. I saw a rheumatologist three years back, who diagnosed me as having myofascial pain. My results were ANA 31, ENA 19, and ESR 25. Please see the attached reports. After that diagnosis, I left to work on my stress levels with the help of Lorazepam (as needed). I went back to my GP recently to put my mind at ease. She ordered TFT, CBC, ESR, vitamin B12, RA latex, and ANA. The results are attached. ANA is now 64 (previously it was 31), ESR remains 25, which to me has always been concerning, but I did not get an ENA result this time. Should I be concerned? I am particularly concerned about lupus.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have seen all the reports (attachment removed to protect patient identity). This does not look like lupus. Lupus is a serious disease, which apart from other symptoms, can affect the kidneys and the brain. I agree that your ANA (antinuclear antibody) is positive, however, this is not a screening test. And it has to be done with the method called indirect immunofluorescence, which I believe was done in your case, but the reports were pending. An ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) of 25 would be considered normal, with nothing to worry about. I suggest we continue with the relaxation techniques and things should improve. If required, ANA can be repeated with immunofluorescence.

I hope that was helpful.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, it is possible to be healthy with this result, as ANA is not a screening test for connective tissue disease. It is a test to reconfirm our diagnosis when it is suspected. Stand alone, it does not hold great significance.

Thank you.