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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Can a test for systemic connective tissue diseases be negative if a diagnosis of lupus has been made?

A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Adak, AK
December 21, 2025
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A MyLupusTeam Member

Our autoantibodies can wax and wane and occasionally be negative, Ekaterina. So yes, this is possible.

December 21, 2025
MyLupusTeam

Can tests for systemic connective tissue diseases be negative after a lupus diagnosis?

Yes, it's possible to have lupus even with negative test results. While most people with lupus test positive for ANA (antinuclear antibodies), some people are diagnosed with what's called ANA-negative lupus.

Your rheumatologist will look at Show Full Answer

Can tests for systemic connective tissue diseases be negative after a lupus diagnosis?

Yes, it's possible to have lupus even with negative test results. While most people with lupus test positive for ANA (antinuclear antibodies), some people are diagnosed with what's called ANA-negative lupus.

Your rheumatologist will look at the complete picture, including:

* Other lupus-specific antibodies like anti-Sm
* Your symptoms and physical exam findings
* Results from kidney biopsies if you have lupus nephritis
* Blood counts and kidney function tests

Labs don't all run tests the same way, so sometimes low levels of antibodies might not be clearly detected and could be reported as negative. Your doctor may use terms like "borderline lupus" or "incomplete lupus" if you have some symptoms but not all the typical test results.

The focus remains on treating your symptoms and supporting your health, regardless of how test results are labeled. If you have questions about your specific test results, talking with your rheumatologist can help clarify what they mean for your diagnosis and treatment plan.

December 21, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

Hi Penny, in my experience my Lupus must have controlled when I was tested previously because I kept being told that I didn’t have the auto immune disease. This past October I was definitely in a flare with pain pretty in tense. I tested positive. I believe that being in the flare had something to do with the final positive diagnosis. I have been on hydroxychloroquine ever since, which has helped. Take care.
Deb

December 21, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

I have tested negative one time and positive the next. It is so similar to lupus and it’s treated the same way .

December 21, 2025
A MyLupusTeam Member

I was actually diagnosed with lupus and Sjogrens in 2017. The mixed connective tissue disorder has been showing up the last couple years in bloodwork

December 27, 2025

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