Extractable Nuclear Antigen Antibodies (SSA 52, SSA 60, and SSB)
Also known as: SSA/SSB
Use
This test is used for the differential evaluation of patients presenting with symptoms that may suggest systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Sjögren syndrome, polymyositis/dermatomyositis, and other tissue diseases or overlapping syndromes. It helps in detecting specific antibodies associated with these autoimmune conditions, aiding in diagnosis and clinical decisions. The SSA-52 (Ro52) and SSA-60 (Ro60) antibodies are particularly significant for diagnosing Sjögren syndrome, SLE, and systemic sclerosis. The SSB (La) antibody is notably seen in Sjögren syndrome cases and provides specificity when it is the only extractable nuclear antigen antibody present. This is crucial for differentiating Sjögren syndrome from other autoimmune diseases and for monitoring disease activity.
Special Instructions
Components such as SSA-52, SSA-60, and SSB are included in the panel, providing a comprehensive evaluation. It is important to separate serum from cells immediately or within two hours of collection. Ensure the serum specimen is transferred to an ARUP standard transport tube for evaluation.
Limitations
The test specifically measures antibodies SSA-52, SSA-60, and SSB, and interpretations are based on AU/mL thresholds that define negative, equivocal, or positive results. Factors such as hemolysis, lipemia, or contamination can affect the results, leading to possible rejection of samples. The presence of related antibodies must be carefully examined for accurate interpretation, as certain antibodies can overlap with conditions like systemic sclerosis, influencing clinical conclusions.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Multiplex Protein Panel)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 31625-7
- 29965-1
- 53019-6
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Separate serum from cells as soon as possible or within 2 hours of collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate specimen after separation from cells.
Causes for Rejection
Plasma or other body fluids, contaminated, hemolyzed, or severely lipemic specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year |
