What does positive ANA test results mean?

A positive ANA test means that autoantibodies are present within an person's blood. Twenty percent of the population have enough autoantibodies in their blood to receive a positive ANA test, so a positive test does not confirm the presence of an autoimmune disorder.

A positive ANA test along with symptoms, such as low grade fever, fatigue, rashes, light sensitivity, numbness of the hands, numbness of the feet, muscle pain or organ inflammation, could be a sign of lupus, thyroid disease, a liver condition or some other autoimmune disorder. The best course of action after receiving a positive ANA test is to speak to a qualified healthcare professional to receive specific information.