ENA Panel
ENA testing is particularly important for women, as the conditions it classifies (Sjogren, SLE, scleroderma) predominantly affect women. Anti-Ro testing is essential for pregnancy planning.
Doctor's Assessment Included
ENA (Extractable Nuclear Antigens): what this test measures
This panel measures antibodies against multiple extractable nuclear antigens. The specific antibody profile helps differentiate between SLE, Sjogren syndrome, scleroderma, mixed connective tissue disease, and polymyositis.
ENA (Extractable Nuclear Antigens): why this value matters
ENA profiling is essential for accurate autoimmune disease classification. Anti-Ro is associated with neonatal lupus and congenital heart block risk in pregnancy. Anti-Sm is highly specific for SLE.
ENA (Extractable Nuclear Antigens): when is testing worthwhile?
Testing could be indicated when ANA is positive and specific autoimmune disease classification is needed, or when clinical features suggest a specific connective tissue disease.
ENA (Extractable Nuclear Antigens): symptoms of a high or low value
Low Levels
A negative ENA panel in the context of positive ANA may suggest ANA is non-specific or related to a condition not characterised by ENA antibodies.
High Levels
Positive ENA antibodies point to specific conditions: anti-Ro/La suggest Sjogren syndrome, anti-Sm suggests SLE, anti-Scl-70 suggests scleroderma, anti-RNP suggests mixed connective tissue disease, anti-Jo-1 suggests polymyositis.
ENA (Extractable Nuclear Antigens): lifestyle and this value
If specific ENA antibodies are positive, consult a rheumatologist for targeted evaluation. Management depends on the specific antibody and associated condition. Sun protection is important for lupus-associated antibodies.
ENA (Extractable Nuclear Antigens): frequently asked questions
What does each ENA antibody mean?
Anti-Ro/SSA: Sjogren, SLE, neonatal lupus risk. Anti-La/SSB: Sjogren. Anti-Sm: SLE-specific. Anti-RNP: mixed connective tissue disease. Anti-Scl-70: diffuse scleroderma. Anti-Jo-1: polymyositis.
Why is anti-Ro important in pregnancy?
Anti-Ro can cross the placenta and cause neonatal lupus, including congenital heart block. Monitoring during pregnancy is essential for anti-Ro positive women.
Can ENA results change over time?
ENA antibodies tend to be stable once positive. They do not typically fluctuate with disease activity like anti-dsDNA does.
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Doctor's Assessment Included
Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.
ENA (Extractable Nuclear Antigens)
€59,-