I have 10 out of 12 symptoms of lupus but a negative ana. can my ana be negative one time and positive another?

Yes: The ANA is often done wrong at the lab. You didn't hear about this from me. Lupus is a difficult disease, with many mimics, and whether true ana-negative lupus exists or whether / when lupus should be treated empirically with the strong medications is requires is a question for your rheumatologist. I admire your courage and wish you the best of luck.

ANA negative SLE: About 5% of the patients with systemic lupus are ANA negative. Read the information at the site given below. Please discuss the issue with your doctor sle is not a topic for self diagnosis. http://www.lupus.org/webmodules/webarticlesnet/templates/new_aboutfaq.aspx?articleid=380&zoneid=19.