Understanding Positive Anti-Nuclear Antibodies (ANA) Test Results

Question
hello dear.please tell me what the following test might mean.   anti niclear antiebodies *positive =>titre 1:320
       pattern                  * neuclear
       ena screeninh test           0.1
       interpretation            * negative
  smooth muscle antibodies      * border positive
  titre                           1:20
  ige                              3.7

my previos email with attachment faild to send.u can show this message for all to see and learn by what ever you may think is wrong .many thanks venesa

Answer
Hi Vanesa, I'd be glad to try and answer your question.  The Anti-Nuclear Antibody (ANA) test is ordered when a patient shows signs and symptoms that are associated with an autoimmune disorder.The nucleolar pattern, of which your is positive is associated with scleroderma and polymyositis.  A positive ANA test result may suggest an autoimmune disease, but further specific testing is required to assist in making a final diagnosis. ANA test results can be positive in people without any known autoimmune disease. While this is not common, the frequency of a false positive ANA result increases as people get older. The Smooth Muscle Antibody (SMA) test is ordered by the doctor to help diagnose autoimmune hepatitis and distinguish it from other causes of liver injury.  But this test may not be as significant since your result is only borderline positive.  But it must be investigated.  You need further testing based on your ANA result.  Be persistent with your doctor if you still don't have an answer!  Hope this helps, Vanesa, and good luck.

Samantha