Immunology

Anti-Nuclear Antibody (ANA)

Dilutions of patient serum are tested for antibodies to DNA 1:20 through 1:1280. We have noted ANA titers of 1:80 and 1:160 in healthy dogs and in dogs with inflammatory conditions. Positive ANA titers should be considered when the titer is >1:160. Interpretation of a positive ANA as diagnostic of SLE should always accompany specific clinical criteria for SLE because some dogs can have positive ANA titers without disease or with inflammatory conditions (Compendium, 1999:21:135 and 402).