Chromatin (Nucleosomal) Antibody Test
This test measures the level of antibodies against chromatin, also called nucleosomes, in a blood serum sample. Quest associates this antibody with the autoimmune response seen in systemic lupus erythematosus.
About this test
Chromatin antibody is measured in serum using an immunoassay method. Quest describes chromatin (nucleosomal) antibody reactivity as associated with the autoimmune response that occurs in systemic lupus erythematosus, noting that approximately 90% of people with SLE show this reactivity in serum.
Because the antibody is linked to a specific autoimmune pattern, a clinician reads a chromatin antibody result together with symptoms, history, and other testing rather than as a standalone result.
Test details
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
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Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports a single value: the level of chromatin (nucleosomal) antibody in a 1 mL serum sample, measured using immunoassay methodology. It is a single antibody marker, so the result is read together with other lupus-related antibody tests a clinician may order rather than as a standalone finding.
How it's often used alongside other tests
Because chromatin antibody reactivity is common in systemic lupus erythematosus, Quest describes it as one marker among the antibody tests clinicians consider when evaluating the condition. A clinician weighs a chromatin antibody result alongside symptoms, history, and any other autoimmune markers ordered at the same time.
This test isn't part of the Celio Health store at the moment, so it can't be ordered or requested here. The test menu lists everything that can.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Chromatin (Nucleosomal) Antibody test measure?
It measures antibody reactivity to chromatin, or nucleosomes, in blood serum, using an immunoassay method. Quest associates this reactivity with the autoimmune response in systemic lupus erythematosus.
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a 1 mL serum sample from a routine blood draw.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
Why is this antibody relevant to lupus?
Quest describes chromatin (nucleosomal) antibody reactivity as present in serum in about 90% of people with systemic lupus erythematosus, which is why it is associated with the autoimmune response seen in that condition.