Antinuclear antibodies anyone?

slummymummy

I have RA, diagnosed last year. My Rheumatology nurse has discussed adding Humira or Enbrel to my methotrexate. She told me that they do tests to check that people aren't developing Lupus, because of the anti-TNF. She said that if people become antinuclear antibody positive, then they have to stop the Humira or Enbrel.

Anyway..... when I was diagnosed last year, I was told that my antinuclear antibody level was 'moderately positive.' I told the nurse this, because I was worried that this means that I can't have an anti-TNF. :oops: Does anyone know about this??

Anyone else antinuclear antibody positive?

(I have a high RhF and very high anti-CCP too, but normal CRP and ESR).

livinglegend

Found this for you:

ANA may become positive before signs and symptoms of an autoimmune disease develop, so it may take time to tell the meaning of a positive ANA in a person who does not have symptoms. Most positive ANA results don't have significance, so physicians should reassure their patients but should also still be vigilant for development of signs and symptoms that might suggest an autoimmune disease.

More at: http://www.labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/ana/test.html

Joseph 8)

slummymummy

Thanks Joseph, 8)

That is helpful (I think) :shock:

I'll have to discuss it at my next Rheumy appt in a few weeks. Just wondering whether anyone else has this, or has been refused an anti-TNF because of it. My nurse said she didn't know.

Just more things to worry about. This time last year, I wouldn't have touched an anti-TNF with a bargepole. Now I'm practically begging for it!!!