This sample is demonstrating an anti-mitochondrial pattern.
Whenever you read an ANA the first step is to see if there is a clearly discernable pattern in the nucleus of the interphase cells. In this case the answer is no (a). However, there is considerable staining in the cytoplasm. This granular "strands of beads" pattern is characteristic of anti-mitochondrial antibodies and should be reported (b).
This sample is reported as ANA Negative, suspect mitochondrial antibodies present. Follow-up testing would include testing for anti-mitochondrial antibodies. Anti-mitochondrial antibodies are seen in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis.
Mitochondrial antibodies:
Cytoplasmic pattern
- Discrete speckling "strand of beads"
