Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prototypic autoimmune disease that primarily affects young women and causes a wide range of inflammatory manifestations. Its hallmark is the production of antibodies to components of the cell nucleus (anti-nuclear antibodies [ANAs]). …
Research has revealed how the prevalence of anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) positivity has changed over the past 25 years, raising questions about the role of ANA in autoimmunity and disease.
Recent research suggests patients with RA and a positive test for anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) may not have a different disease course than patients with RA who test negative for ANA. However, these patients may experience different treatment courses.