ENA Profile (Extractable Nuclear Antigen Panel) – Test Details & Precautions

The ENA Profile is a blood test used to detect autoimmune diseases by identifying specific antibodies against extractable nuclear antigens. It helps diagnose conditions like Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Sjögren’s Syndrome, Polymyositis, and Scleroderma.

Antibodies Included in ENA Profile:

1. Anti-SSA (Ro) – Linked to Sjögren’s syndrome & SLE.
2. Anti-SSB (La) – Associated with Sjögren’s syndrome & neonatal lupus.
3. Anti-Jo-1 Antibody – Indicates Polymyositis or Dermatomyositis.
4. Anti-Sm Antibody (SmAb) – Specific marker for SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus).
5. Anti-SCL-70 Antibody – Associated with Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma).
6. Anti-Centromere B (Cent-B) – Marker for CREST Syndrome (a subtype of Scleroderma).

Test Purpose & Disease Association

Test Precautions:

✔ No fasting required.
✔ Avoid immunosuppressive drugs (if possible) before the test (consult your doctor).
✔ Inform your doctor about autoimmune disease symptoms before testing.
✔ Results should be interpreted alongside ANA test for accurate diagnosis.

Next Steps if Positive:

• If Anti-SSA & Anti-SSB are positive → Suspected Sjögren’s syndrome or SLE → Additional salivary gland biopsy or Schirmer’s test may be required.
• If Anti-Sm is positive → Confirms SLE → Further tests like dsDNA & complement levels may be needed.
• If Anti-SCL-70 or Anti-Cent-B is positive → Suggests Scleroderma → Additional skin & lung function tests might be necessary.