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PCNA (Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen) Antibody Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

PCNA (Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen) Antibody Test

Short Name: PCNA Antibody

Also known as: Anti-PCNA antibody, Anti-proliferating cell nuclear antigen, PCNA Ab

PCNA (Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen) Antibody Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹22,000. Uses Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) on Serum samples. Results in Reports will be delivered within 2-3 weeks after the laboratory receives the sample. Samples submitted after the 7th of the month may be processed in the next cycle.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Blood Test🏠 Home Collection

Overview

The purpose of the PCNA antibody test is to detect the presence of antibodies directed against proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Detection of these antibodies supports the clinical diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and may indicate a higher risk for diffuse glomerulonephritis. This test is not used for cancer screening; its diagnostic value is centered on autoimmune diseases.

Test Code
3535
ICD Code
M32.9
Price
₹22,000
Sample Type
Serum
Result Time
Reports will be delivered within 2-3 weeks after the laboratory receives the sample. Samples submitted after the 7th of the month may be processed in the next cycle.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
Step 1

Sample Collection

No fasting is required. A duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory. Please inform your doctor about any medications, especially immunosuppressants, before sample collection.

Method: Blood specimen by venipuncture

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A sterile needle is used to draw blood from a vein in the arm. The procedure is quick and causes minimal discomfort.

Step 3

Report Delivery

You may resume normal activities immediately. Keep the puncture site clean and apply pressure if there is any bleeding.

Timeline: Reports will be delivered within 2-3 weeks after the laboratory receives the sample. Samples submitted after the 7th of the month may be processed in the next cycle.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No special preparation is required. Ensure the mandatory consent form is filled and bring it on the day of sample collection.
2
During the Test:A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm. The procedure takes only a few minutes.
3
After the Test:You can return to your daily routine immediately. If you experience any unusual symptoms at the puncture site, contact our helpline.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The purpose of the PCNA antibody test is to detect the presence of antibodies directed against proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Detection of these antibodies supports the clinical diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and may indicate a higher risk for diffuse glomerulonephritis. This test is not used for cancer screening; its diagnostic value is centered on autoimmune diseases.

How to Prepare

  • No fasting is required
  • Download and fill the Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) before sample collection
  • Carry a valid prescription or physician requisition form if available
  • Ensure the sample is collected on the scheduled date before the 7th of the month

Doctor's Notes

"Anti-PCNA antibodies are one of the most specific markers for SLE. While they occur in only a small subset of patients, a positive result is clinically meaningful and warrants comprehensive evaluation for lupus nephritis."

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeSerum
Sample Volume2 mL (1 mL min.)
Container1 SST (Serum Separator Tube)
Collection MethodBlood specimen by venipuncture

Sample Stability

Room Temperature: 8 hours
Refrigerator (2-8°C): 7 days
Frozen (-20°C): 30 days
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolysed or severely lipemic samples
  • Improperly labelled samples without mandatory consent form
  • Prolonged storage beyond the recommended stability limits

Understanding Your Results

The PCNA antibody test result is typically reported as positive or negative. The reference range is negative. If a titer is provided, a titer of less than 1:40 is considered negative.
📊

Positive

Anti-PCNA antibodies detected. Strongly supports the diagnosis of SLE and is associated with a higher risk of diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis.

📊

Negative

No anti-PCNA antibodies detected. Does not exclude SLE, as anti-PCNA is present in only a small percentage of SLE patients.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

If you experience persistent symptoms such as fever, fatigue, malar rash, joint pain, or unexplained kidney abnormalities, or if your PCNA antibody test is positive, please consult a rheumatologist or clinical immunologist for further assessment.

Limitations

  • Negative result does not rule out SLE because anti-PCNA antibodies occur in only 3-5% of SLE patients
  • Positive result must be interpreted in conjunction with clinical symptoms and other laboratory findings
  • Test is not intended for cancer screening or cancer diagnosis

Risks & Considerations

  • Mild pain or bruising at the injection site
  • Bleeding or hematoma (rare)
  • Infection (very rare, minimized by sterile technique)
  • Dizziness or fainting in some patients

Interfering Factors

  • Recent immunosuppressive therapy may reduce antibody production and cause false-negative results
  • Severe hemolysis, lipemia, or icterus may interfere with immunofluorescence testing
  • Improper sample storage or delayed separation of serum can affect sample integrity

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the PCNA antibody test?
The PCNA antibody test is a blood test that detects autoantibodies against proliferating cell nuclear antigen. It is used mainly to support the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
What is the cost of the PCNA antibody test in India?
At DNA Labs India, the test costs INR 22,000, which includes free home sample collection in most cities across India.
Is PCNA antibody test a cancer test?
No. Although PCNA is involved in DNA replication, this test specifically detects autoantibodies against PCNA and is used in autoimmune disease diagnosis, particularly SLE. It is not a cancer screening test.
What does a positive PCNA antibody result mean?
A positive result means anti-PCNA antibodies were detected. This is strongly suggestive of SLE, and there is an increased risk of developing diffuse proliferative glomerulonephritis.
How is the PCNA antibody test performed?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) is performed to detect PCNA antibodies.
Do I need to fast for this test?
No, fasting is not required. However, you need to submit a duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) as part of the sample collection process.
What is the sample requirement for the PCNA antibody test?
The test requires 2 mL (minimum 1 mL) of serum from a serum separator tube (SST). The sample can be shipped refrigerated or frozen.
How long does it take to get results?
Reports are typically issued within 2-3 weeks after the sample is submitted. Samples must be received by the 7th of the month to be included in the next batch.
Are there any risks from the blood draw?
The risks are minimal and may include slight pain, bruising, bleeding, or infection at the puncture site. These are no different from any routine blood test.
Can this test be done at home?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for this test. A trained phlebotomist will visit your location to collect the sample.
Is the PCNA antibody test covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your insurance policy and the diagnosis. Government schemes such as PMJAY, CGHS, ECHS, and ESIC may or may not cover this test. Please check with your provider.
What should I do if my PCNA antibody test is positive?
Consult your rheumatologist or immunologist. A positive result supports the diagnosis of SLE, but your doctor will recommend further evaluation, including kidney function tests and urinalysis, to assess for associated conditions like lupus nephritis.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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