ANA-positive
Having detectable antinuclear antibodies, a significant risk factor for chronic anterior uveitis in juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients.
Full Definition
ANA-positive refers to the presence of antinuclear antibodies detected by indirect immunofluorescence, typically at a titer of 1:80 or higher. In pediatric rheumatology, ANA positivity is a crucial prognostic marker, particularly in oligoarticular and polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis. ANA-positive patients, especially young girls with early-onset disease, have significantly increased risk for developing chronic anterior uveitis. The pattern and titer may provide additional clinical information, though the homogeneous and speckled patterns are most commonly associated with JIA and uveitis risk.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate when used as compound adjective; specify titer when available.
In Context
- "The 4-year-old girl with oligoarticular JIA and ANA-positive status required intensive uveitis screening every 3 months." — Risk assessment note
- "ANA-positive patients showed higher rates of uveitis development in the longitudinal cohort study." — Research publication