Section III. FLUORESCENT ANTINUCLEAR ANTIBODY TEST (FANA)
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PRINCIPLE
The FANA utilizes the indirect fluorescent antibody technique. Antinuclear
antibodies in a patient's serum will bind with nuclear antigens of a tissue cell culture
substrate affixed to a slide. Fluorescein-conjugated antihuman globulin interacts with
nuclear antibodies attached to the cell nuclei in a positive assay which is indicated by an
apple-green fluorescence.
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REPORTING RESULTS
a. Negative. Fluorescent intensity of the cells' nuclei approximates that of the
negative control, and there is no discernible pattern in the nucleus.
b. Positive. Fluorescent intensity of the cells' nuclei is greater than the negative
control, and there is a clearly discernible pattern in the nucleus. Report positive controls
and patients by the specific fluorescent pattern observed.
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NUCLEAR PATTERNS
a. Homogeneous.
(1)
Smooth, even staining of the nucleus.
(2)
Antibodies indicated, anti-native DNA, anti-DNP.
(3)
Condition indicated-SLE (high titer), RA (low titer).
b. Peripheral.
(1)
Staining of the nuclear membrane only.
(2)
Antibodies indicated, anti-native DNA.
(3)
Condition indicated, SLE.
c. Speckled.
(1)
Grainy staining throughout the nucleus usually not affecting the nucleoli.
(2)
Antibodies indicated, anti-Sm, anti-RNP.
(3)
Conditions indicated, SLE, PSS, SS, MCTD.
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