- Published on
Diagnostic Tests – Anti-Ro (SSA) and Anti-La (SSB) Antibodies
1. What diseases are they associated with?
Anti-Ro (SSA) and Anti-La (SSB) antibodies are most strongly associated with Sjögren’s syndrome. Patients with Sjögren’s syndrome classically have:
These antibodies may also be seen in other connective tissue diseases, but their strongest association is with Sjögren’s syndrome.
2. When are they the answer?
You should select anti-Ro and anti-La antibody testing when the clinical scenario describes the classic sicca triad, which includes:
Dry eyes + dry mouth + arthritis → think Sjögren’s syndrome → order anti-Ro / anti-La antibodies.
1. What diseases are they associated with?
Anti-Ro (SSA) and Anti-La (SSB) antibodies are most strongly associated with Sjögren’s syndrome. Patients with Sjögren’s syndrome classically have:
- Positive ANA
- Anti-Ro and/or Anti-La antibodies
- Often a positive rheumatoid factor
These antibodies may also be seen in other connective tissue diseases, but their strongest association is with Sjögren’s syndrome.
2. When are they the answer?
You should select anti-Ro and anti-La antibody testing when the clinical scenario describes the classic sicca triad, which includes:
- Dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca)
- Dry mouth (xerostomia)
- Arthritis or arthralgias
Dry eyes + dry mouth + arthritis → think Sjögren’s syndrome → order anti-Ro / anti-La antibodies.
0 Comments
