Extractable Nuclear Antibodies Test | London Blood Tests

Detect autoimmune disease with our Extractable Nuclear Antibodies (ENA) blood test for £108. UKAS-accredited testing, optional GP review.

The Extractable Nuclear Antibodies (ENA) Test detects specific autoantibodies linked to systemic autoimmune diseases such as lupus, Sjögren’s syndrome, and mixed connective tissue disease. Testing is performed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory, with results typically available within 10 business days and an optional GP consultation.

What is an Extractable Nuclear Antibodies (ENA) Blood Test?

The ENA test measures a group of autoantibodies directed against proteins found in the nucleus of cells. These antibodies are often present in connective tissue and systemic autoimmune diseases and help refine diagnosis when an ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) test is positive or when autoimmune disease is suspected.

Common antibodies included in an ENA panel may include:

• Anti-Ro (SSA)

• Anti-La (SSB)

• Anti-Sm

• Anti-RNP

• Anti-Scl-70

• Anti-Jo-1

Each antibody pattern is associated with specific autoimmune conditions, allowing clinicians to narrow down the likely diagnosis and guide further investigation or referral.

At London Blood Tests, ENA antibodies are measured using validated immunoassay techniques aligned with UK rheumatology and immunology standards.

Benefits of the ENA Test

1. Refines Autoimmune Diagnosis
   Identifies specific autoantibodies linked to particular connective tissue diseases.

2. Clarifies Positive ANA Results
   Helps determine the clinical significance of a positive ANA test.

3. Supports Early Detection
   Autoantibodies may be detectable before full clinical symptoms develop.

4. Guides Specialist Referral
   Assists GPs in determining whether rheumatology referral is appropriate.

5. Differentiates Autoimmune Conditions
   Helps distinguish between lupus, Sjögren’s syndrome, scleroderma, and others.

6. Useful for Ongoing Disease Monitoring
   Some ENA antibodies can be followed over time to assess disease activity.

7. Optional GP Consultation for Interpretation
   Results can be reviewed with a GP to explain findings and plan next steps.

Why Do I Need an ENA Blood Test?

You may benefit from an ENA test if you experience symptoms suggestive of autoimmune or connective tissue disease, such as:

• Persistent joint or muscle pain

• Fatigue or malaise

• Dry eyes or dry mouth

• Skin rashes or photosensitivity

• Raynaud’s phenomenon (cold or colour-changing fingers)

• Muscle weakness

• Unexplained fever

Testing is often recommended if you:

• Have a positive ANA test

• Have unexplained systemic symptoms

• Have suspected lupus, Sjögren’s, or scleroderma

• Require further autoimmune investigation

How the Test Works

In-Clinic Testing at London Blood Tests

1. Book Your Appointment

   • Book online or by phone at your chosen clinic.

   • No fasting required.

2. Pre-Test Review

   • Inform the clinician about symptoms or known autoimmune diagnoses.

3. Sample Collection

   • A trained phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.

   • Takes approximately 5–10 minutes.

4. Laboratory Analysis

   • Sample analysed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory using immunoassays.

5. Quality Control

   • Results undergo internal verification before release.

6. Results Delivery

   • Results typically available within 10 business days.

7. Optional GP Consultation

   • Review results and referral needs with a GP.

At-Home Blood Draw (Home or Hotel Phlebotomy – UK-Wide)

1. Book Your Visit

   • Arrange a phlebotomist home or hotel visit at a suitable time.

2. Professional Collection

   • Certified phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.

3. Secure Transport

   • Sample couriered same day to the laboratory.

4. Laboratory Testing

   • Analysis identical to clinic testing.

5. Results & Follow-Up

   • Results delivered online, GP review optional.

Your ENA Test Results – Explained

Results are reported as positive or negative for each antibody in the ENA panel.

General interpretation:

• Anti-Ro (SSA): Sjögren’s syndrome, lupus

• Anti-La (SSB): Sjögren’s syndrome

• Anti-Sm: systemic lupus erythematosus

• Anti-RNP: mixed connective tissue disease

• Anti-Scl-70: systemic sclerosis

• Anti-Jo-1: inflammatory myositis

Important notes:

• A positive ENA result does not confirm diagnosis alone

• Results must be interpreted alongside symptoms and other tests

• Negative results do not completely exclude autoimmune disease