Inflammation & Immunity

Autoimmune Blood Test

How autoimmune conditions are typically screened in private UK testing.

Autoimmune blood tests look for antibodies your immune system has produced against your own tissues. Common screening tests include ANA (antinuclear antibodies), rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP, TPO antibodies and coeliac screening.

What it measures

ANA

A general screen for autoimmune disease, often raised in lupus and related conditions.

Rheumatoid factor

Used to help assess rheumatoid arthritis.

Anti-CCP

A more specific marker for rheumatoid arthritis than rheumatoid factor alone.

TPO antibodies

Raised in autoimmune thyroid disease such as Hashimoto's.

tTG IgA

First-line screen for coeliac disease.

Why it matters

Autoimmune conditions are common and frequently underdiagnosed, particularly in women.
Antibody tests are screening tools — diagnosis always requires clinical assessment.
Some antibodies can be positive in healthy people, so context matters.

How testing works

Order a targeted autoimmune panel based on your symptoms (joints, thyroid, gut, skin).
Most panels require a venous blood draw at a clinic rather than a finger-prick.
Results are typically returned in 3–7 working days with clinician comments.

Compare Autoimmune Blood Test prices in the UK

Side-by-side comparison of CQC-regulated providers and UKAS-accredited laboratories. Transparent pricing, typical turnaround times and sample methods.

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Frequently asked questions

Can a single test diagnose an autoimmune condition?

No. Antibody tests support diagnosis but are never used in isolation. A clinician will combine symptoms, examination and additional investigations before any diagnosis is made.

Can I have a positive ANA but be healthy?

Yes — a low-titre positive ANA is found in a small proportion of healthy adults. The result needs interpretation in clinical context.

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