Negative ANA

[pyablon]

I'm scheduled for my LP tomorrow after having history and physical with PCP yesterday. Six viles of blood and first result is in. Negative ANA. I have been told that it's not unusual for a woman my age (62) to have a false positive but not a false negative.

Any thoughts in relation to MS possible diagnosis?
Thanks!

[MSer102]

ANA isn't related to MS. So whether its positive or negative it doesn't tell you anything about MS. Doctors order the test to check for other autoimmune diseases to either rule them in or rule them out as part of a workup for symptoms. For a diagnosis of MS all other possible causes for the symptoms have to be ruled out first.

[CaroleL]

ANA, Anti Nuclear Antibody test is a testing done for Lupus, which is also an auto-immune disease. Like MSer said, test are are done to eliminate other reasons, diseases that may be responsible for your symptoms.

Hopefully you'll get some answers soon.

Good luck!

[pyablon]

Had LP today and should hopefully hear something by next Tuesday.