LabInformationLab tests, explained

Autoimmune Disorder Panel in Maine

Below is a plain-language overview of the autoimmune disorder panel. An autoimmune disorder panel is a group of blood tests used to look for signs that the immune system may be attacking the body's own tissues. It is often ordered when a person has unexplained inflammation, joint pain, fatigue, rashes, or other symptoms that could suggest an autoimmune condition. This page covers the autoimmune disorder panel for people in Maine, in New England, from what it measures to how to arrange a draw.

Sample type
blood
Category
Autoimmune
Turnaround
1-3 business days
Price
$198
Referral
Not required

An autoimmune disorder panel is a group of blood tests used to look for signs that the immune system may be attacking the body's own tissues. It is often ordered when a person has unexplained inflammation, joint pain, fatigue, rashes, or other symptoms that could suggest an autoimmune condition.

What it measures

  • Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) — A common screening marker; a positive result can occur in several autoimmune conditions but also in some healthy people.
  • Rheumatoid factor (RF) — An antibody often found in rheumatoid arthritis and sometimes in other inflammatory conditions.
  • Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) — A more specific marker for rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) — A general sign of inflammation in the body; it does not point to one specific disease.
  • C-reactive protein (CRP) — Another general inflammation marker that can rise with infection, injury, or autoimmune activity.
  • Complement proteins (C3, C4) — Proteins in the immune system that may be low in some autoimmune conditions.

Who it is for

A primary care clinician, rheumatologist, or other specialist may order this panel when symptoms or exam findings raise concern for an autoimmune disorder.

Preparation

No fasting is usually required for this panel. Tell your clinician about all medicines and supplements you take, because some can affect the results.

Results and what they mean

Results are reported as individual values with reference ranges, and some markers may be positive or negative. A clinician interprets the pattern of results along with your symptoms and history; one abnormal value alone does not confirm a diagnosis. This is general information, not medical advice.

Requesting the Autoimmune Disorder Panel in Maine

Order online, choose a certified collection site in Maine, and review results through a secure portal. No referral is required, and orders are processed confidentially. With short distances between towns that keep most people within an easy drive of a draw site, it pays to schedule your collection in advance.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before this test?

Usually no. Fasting is not typically required for autoimmune panel blood tests.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result can suggest an autoimmune condition, but it can also occur in people without one. Your clinician will consider the full picture.

Can this panel rule out all autoimmune diseases?

No. It is a screening tool. Some conditions may need more specific tests or repeat testing over time.

How long until I get results?

Typical turnaround is 1 to 3 business days, though it may vary by lab.

Autoimmune Disorder Panel by city in Maine

All testing in Maine →   Full Autoimmune Disorder Panel guide →