What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes, or persistent inflammation that may suggest an autoimmune condition. It helps identify if your immune system is mistakenly attacking your own tissues, which can happen in conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjogren's syndrome. Many people use this test when they have mysterious symptoms that haven't been explained by other tests or when autoimmune disease runs in their family.

What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your antibody patterns mean and whether they suggest autoimmune activity. These notes include personalized recommendations like which symptoms to monitor, lifestyle adjustments to reduce inflammation, or whether you should consult a rheumatologist for further evaluation. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your antibody levels over time using our trends feature, which is especially helpful for monitoring disease activity or treatment effectiveness.

What's included in this test?

This panel measures Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA) by immunofluorescence assay (IFA), and if positive, reflexes to determine ANA titer, ANA pattern, and then tests for 11 specific autoimmune antibodies including anti-dsDNA, anti-Smith, anti-RNP, anti-SSA (Ro), anti-SSB (La), anti-Scl-70, anti-centromere, anti-Jo-1, anti-ribosomal P, anti-histone, and anti-chromatin antibodies. This comprehensive cascade begins with an ANA screening using immunofluorescence to detect antinuclear antibodies, which are markers of autoimmune activity. If positive, it automatically determines the titer level (how concentrated the antibodies are) and pattern (which helps identify specific conditions), then reflexes to test for 11 specific antibodies associated with different autoimmune diseases like lupus, scleroderma, and mixed connective tissue disease. Together, these measurements provide a thorough picture of your immune system's activity and help pinpoint which autoimmune condition may be present.

How should I prepare for this test?

No special preparation is typically required for the ANA cascade test. You don't need to fast, and you can take your regular medications unless your doctor advises otherwise. It's best to schedule your test at a convenient time since preparation is minimal, but let your healthcare provider know about any medications or supplements you're taking, as some can affect antibody levels.

When will I get my results?

Most ANA cascade results are available within 3-5 business days for the initial screening. If the test reflexes to the antibody panel, it may take an additional 2-3 days for the complete cascade results. You'll be notified as soon as your full results are ready, and the comprehensive doctor notes will help you understand what the findings mean for your health.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is ideal for people experiencing unexplained symptoms like chronic fatigue, joint pain and swelling, persistent skin rashes, or unusual sensitivity to sunlight. It's also important for those with a family history of autoimmune diseases, women of childbearing age with reproductive issues, or anyone whose doctor suspects an autoimmune condition based on other test results or physical examination findings.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms that may warrant this test include persistent joint pain or stiffness, unexplained rashes (especially a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks), extreme fatigue that doesn't improve with rest, and recurring low-grade fevers. You might also consider this test if you experience dry eyes and mouth, muscle weakness, hair loss, or fingers that turn white or blue in cold temperatures, as these can indicate specific autoimmune conditions.

How can I naturally support my immune system with autoimmune concerns?

Focus on an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids from fish, colorful vegetables, and fruits while avoiding processed foods and excess sugar. Prioritize quality sleep of 7-9 hours nightly and practice stress management through meditation, yoga, or gentle exercise, as stress can trigger autoimmune flares. Maintain good gut health with probiotic-rich foods and consider eliminating potential trigger foods like gluten or dairy to see if symptoms improve.

What does a positive ANA test mean?

A positive ANA test means your immune system is producing antinuclear antibodies that target components of your own cells' nuclei. While this suggests autoimmune activity, it doesn't automatically mean you have a disease—many healthy people, especially older adults and women, can have low-level positive ANA results. The titer level, pattern, and specific antibody panel results help determine if there's a clinically significant autoimmune condition present.

What is ANA titer and why does it matter?

The ANA titer measures how concentrated your antinuclear antibodies are by showing how many times your blood sample can be diluted and still show a positive result (like 1:80, 1:160, 1:320). Higher titers generally suggest stronger autoimmune activity and are more likely to be associated with actual disease rather than a false positive. However, the titer alone doesn't diagnose a condition—it must be interpreted along with your symptoms, pattern, and specific antibody results.

How often should I retest my ANA levels?

If you've been diagnosed with an autoimmune condition, your doctor may recommend retesting every 6-12 months to monitor disease activity or treatment effectiveness. If your initial ANA was positive but you don't have a diagnosis yet, your doctor might suggest retesting in 3-6 months along with monitoring your symptoms. Once your condition is stable and well-managed, annual testing may be sufficient unless you experience new symptoms or flares.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Autoimmune Blood Test - Joint Pain & Inflammation

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]

Autoimmune Test for Joint Pain and Unexplained Symptoms

ANA Cascade (ANA, IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern, and Reflex to 11 Ab Cascade)

90 day happiness guarantee

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

90 day happiness guarantee

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

What's this test for?

How should I prepare for this test?

What's included in this test?

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

Autoimmune Test for Joint Pain and Unexplained Symptoms

90 day happiness guarantee

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say