What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained joint pain, persistent fatigue, skin rashes (especially a butterfly-shaped rash on your face), recurring fevers, or unusual sensitivity to sunlight. It helps identify lupus and other autoimmune disorders by detecting specific antibodies your immune system produces when it mistakenly attacks your own tissues. Many people use this test when they have concerning symptoms that suggest an autoimmune condition but need concrete answers to guide treatment.

What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your antibody levels mean and whether they indicate lupus or other autoimmune activity. These notes include personalized recommendations about lifestyle modifications, symptom management strategies, and whether you should follow up with a rheumatologist for specialized care. 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 if you're diagnosed.

What's included in this test?

This panel measures antinuclear antibodies (ANA) using immunofluorescence assay (IFA), with automatic reflex to titer and pattern if positive. This panel uses a specialized immunofluorescence assay (IFA) to detect antinuclear antibodies (ANA), which are markers your immune system creates when it attacks your own cells. If ANA is detected, the test automatically reflexes to determine the specific titer (concentration) and pattern, providing crucial information about what type of autoimmune activity may be present. Together, these measurements help distinguish lupus from other autoimmune conditions and assess disease severity.

How should I prepare for this test?

No special preparation is typically required for this 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 time when you're experiencing typical symptoms if possible, and inform your healthcare provider about any medications you're taking, as some can affect ANA results.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is important for anyone experiencing classic lupus symptoms like unexplained joint pain and swelling, extreme fatigue, skin rashes, or sensitivity to sunlight. It's also valuable for people with a family history of lupus or autoimmune diseases, women of childbearing age with unexplained symptoms (as lupus predominantly affects women), and anyone whose doctor suspects an autoimmune condition based on their symptoms and medical history.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms that suggest you may need lupus testing include persistent joint pain or swelling (especially in hands, wrists, and knees), extreme fatigue that doesn't improve with rest, a butterfly-shaped rash across your cheeks and nose, fever without infection, unusual hair loss, mouth sores, chest pain when breathing deeply, fingers turning white or blue in cold (Raynaud's phenomenon), or unexplained swelling in legs or around eyes. If you're experiencing several of these symptoms together, this test can help identify the underlying cause.

How can I naturally support my immune system with lupus?

Managing lupus involves protecting yourself from sun exposure by wearing sunscreen (SPF 50+), protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours, as UV light can trigger flares. Getting adequate rest (7-9 hours nightly), managing stress through meditation or gentle yoga, and eating an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (fish, flaxseed), colorful fruits, and vegetables can help reduce symptoms. Regular low-impact exercise like swimming or walking, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol can also help manage inflammation and maintain overall health.

What is ANA and why does it matter?

ANA stands for antinuclear antibodies, which are proteins your immune system creates when it mistakenly targets the nucleus (control center) of your own cells. While ANA can be present in healthy people at low levels, higher concentrations or specific patterns are strongly associated with lupus and other autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or Sjögren's syndrome. The titer (concentration) and pattern of ANA help doctors determine whether an autoimmune condition is present and guide appropriate treatment.

What does a positive ANA test mean?

A positive ANA test means that antinuclear antibodies were detected in your blood, indicating your immune system is producing antibodies against your own cells. However, a positive ANA doesn't automatically mean you have lupus—it can occur in other autoimmune conditions, certain infections, or even in some healthy individuals. The specific titer level and pattern, combined with your symptoms and other test results, help your doctor determine whether lupus or another autoimmune disease is present.

How often should I retest my ANA levels?

If you're initially negative but symptoms persist or worsen, your doctor may recommend retesting in 3-6 months, as autoimmune markers can develop over time. If you're diagnosed with lupus, retesting frequency depends on your disease activity and treatment—typically every 3-6 months during active disease or medication adjustments, and annually when stable. Your rheumatologist will create a personalized monitoring schedule based on your specific situation, symptoms, and response to treatment.

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.

Lupus Test - Joint Pain, Fatigue & Autoimmune Check

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]

Blood Test for Joint Pain, Fatigue, and Lupus Symptoms

Lupus Panel 3 with ANA, IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern

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.

Blood Test for Joint Pain, Fatigue, and Lupus 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