La/SSB Ab

Among its tests, the IntroLab laboratory in Belgrade also offers La/SSB Ab analysis. This analysis is a precise diagnostic procedure designed to detect specific antibodies in the patient’s bloodstream.

What are Anti-La /SSB antibodies?

Anti-La /SSB antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to certain cells of the body, particularly those containing the La/SSB protein. Under normal circumstances, the immune system protects our health by identifying and destroying foreign bodies such as bacteria and viruses. However, in certain situations, the immune system may mistakenly identify its own cells as foreign, leading to the production of antibodies that attack these cells. Anti-La/SSB antibodies are one of these autoantibodies, and their presence can indicate the existence of an autoimmune disease.

When is the La/SSB Ab test needed?

The La/SSB Ab test is usually ordered when a patient shows symptoms characteristic of SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) or Sjögren’s syndrome. These can include:

• Fatigue
• Rash
• Arthritis
• Dry eyes and mouth
• Swelling and pain in joints
• Difficulty breathing
• Difficulty concentrating

Your doctor will decide if this test is necessary based on your symptoms and medical history.

How are the results interpreted?

The results of the analysis are usually displayed as positive or negative. A positive result indicates the presence of Anti-La/SSB antibodies in the blood, which can suggest an autoimmune disease. However, it is important to emphasize that a positive result does not necessarily mean that the person has the disease, as antibodies can be detected in healthy individuals, especially older ones. Also, some people with SLE or Sjögren’s syndrome may have negative results. Therefore, this test is usually used in combination with other tests and clinical findings to make a definitive diagnosis.

Specifics and subtypes of the analysis

This analysis is typically conducted as part of an antinuclear antibody (ANA) panel, which tests for the presence of various autoantibodies in the blood. The ANA test is the first step in diagnosing autoimmune diseases and includes the detection of Anti-La/SSB antibodies. However, there are situations when a specific analysis for Anti-La/SSB antibodies alone may be required. This is usually necessary when symptoms clearly point to specific diseases associated with these antibodies, such as Sjögren’s syndrome and systemic lupus erythematosus, or when there is suspicion of these diseases despite a negative ANA test.

Specifically, there are two types of Anti-La/SSB antibodies:

• anti-La/SSB (Ro)
• anti-La/SSB (La)

Each of these antibodies is associated with specific autoimmune conditions, although both may be present in the same diseases. The analysis can be specifically targeted to one of these antibodies, or cover both.