Nucleolar pattern ANA

Posted by popsy @popsy, Sep 18, 2022

I was just diagnosed with Raynaud’s so my doctor ordered ANA testing. It was positive so they are currently running additional tests. The most recent results show Nucleolar pattern. Upon searching the internet for this I’m a little alarmed by what it means. My doctor is on vacation for a week so I won’t talk to her until she returns. In the meantime these results keep coming into my inbox and I’m getting worried. My only symptoms are cold fingers, occasional numbness in right hand and dry mouth. I’m 64 years old and very active.

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Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Sep 18, 2022

Oh @popsy, having access to your results before you can discuss with your doctor can cause unnecessary worry, can't it. Here's more information from Mayo Clinic about the ANA test
- ANA test https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ana-test/about/pac-20385204

This excerpt is especially important for you to know:
"The presence of antinuclear antibodies is a positive test result. But having a positive result doesn't mean you have a disease. Many people with no disease have positive ANA tests — particularly women older than 65.

Some infectious diseases and cancers have been associated with the development of antinuclear antibodies, as have certain drugs.

If your doctor suspects you have an autoimmune disease, he or she is likely to order a number of tests. The result of your ANA test is one piece of information your doctor can use to help determine the cause of your signs and symptoms."

Bottom line: The ANA results alone don't tell the whole story. It is only with your doctor who knows your medical history, complete results of this and other tests, that you can get answers.

My recommendation is don't fret. However I know that is much easier said than done. It helps to talk with others, so let's get you connected with other members who also have Raynaud's. I encourage you to introduce yourself in this discussion (just click the link to go there).
- Raynaud's Syndrome: Anyone want to talk about Raynaud’s? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/raynauds-syndrome/

popsy | @popsy | Sep 18, 2022

In reply to @colleenyoung "Oh @popsy, having access to your results before you can discuss with your doctor can cause..." + (show)

Thank you, Colleen. That article does help and I’ll try not to worry until my doctor returns. I know she will contact me as soon as she gets back as she is very good at communicating. I will also join the Raynaud’s discussion.