If you are still showing ANA antibodies while on a biologic DMARD, is the biologic working?

Hi @mholtom‍,

Thank you for your question.

The interpretation of the level of antinuclear antibodies is still a matter of debate in the medical community, but it seems that variations in the concentration of these antibodies during treatment could have a prognostic value. In other words, a net increase in their concentration during treatment suggests that the disease is still active and that the treatment is not completely effective.

There is no definitive level of antinuclear antibodies to aim for. What seems to be important is the increase or decrease in the concentration of antinuclear antibodies over time compared to their concentration at the start of treatment.

The evolution of antinuclear antibody levels is one sign among others. Like any biological measurement, it must always be interpreted in relation to the clinical symptoms.

Have a nice day!