The Rheumatology Profile 7 (Sjogren’s Syndrome) Blood Test is specifically designed to diagnose Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disorder primarily affecting the moisture-producing glands. Sjögren’s syndrome is characterized by dry eyes (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), dry mouth (xerostomia), and, in some cases, systemic involvement affecting the joints, skin, lungs, kidneys, and nerves. This profile tests for autoantibodies and inflammatory markers associated with Sjögren’s syndrome and other autoimmune diseases.

Components of the Rheumatology Profile 7 (Sjogren’s Syndrome) Blood Test:

1. Anti-Ro/SSA Antibodies

  • Purpose: Detects antibodies directed against the Ro (SSA) antigen, which is commonly found in Sjögren’s syndrome and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
  • Indication: A key marker for Sjögren’s syndrome, especially in patients with dry eyes and dry mouth.
  • Abnormal Results: A positive Anti-Ro (SSA) result is highly indicative of Sjögren’s syndrome, as well as subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus (SCLE).

2. Anti-La/SSB Antibodies

  • Purpose: Detects antibodies against the La (SSB) antigen, another marker of Sjögren’s syndrome and lupus.
  • Indication: Anti-La (SSB) is more specific to primary Sjögren’s syndrome than Anti-Ro.
  • Abnormal Results: A positive Anti-La (SSB) test is also strongly associated with Sjögren’s syndrome and may appear along with Anti-Ro antibodies.

3. C-Reactive Protein (CRP)

  • Purpose: Measures the levels of C-reactive protein, another marker of inflammation.
  • Indication: CRP is used to assess the level of systemic inflammation and to monitor disease activity in autoimmune diseases.
  • Abnormal Results: Elevated CRP levels indicate active inflammation but may be less elevated in Sjögren’s syndrome compared to other inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

3. Salivary Antibodies (SAB)

Conditions Often Assessed with Rheumatology Profile 7:

  • Sjögren’s Syndrome (Primary and Secondary): The main condition this panel is designed to diagnose. It can occur alone (primary) or in association with other autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus (secondary).
  • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Can overlap with Sjögren’s syndrome and share some of the same autoantibodies, particularly Anti-Ro/SSA and Anti-La/SSB.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): Some patients with RA may develop secondary Sjögren’s syndrome, leading to dry eyes and mouth along with joint symptoms.
  • Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD): An overlap syndrome that may include features of Sjögren’s syndrome along with symptoms of lupus and scleroderma.

When Is the Rheumatology Profile 7 Test Ordered?

  • Suspected Sjögren’s Syndrome: When a patient presents with dry eyes, dry mouth, fatigue, or joint pain, this profile helps confirm the diagnosis.
  • Differentiating Autoimmune Conditions: In patients with symptoms that overlap with other autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Monitoring Disease Activity: To track disease progression in Sjögren’s syndrome or evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.

Interpretation of Results:

  • Positive Anti-Ro (SSA) and Anti-La (SSB): Strongly suggestive of Sjögren’s syndrome, particularly in patients with dry eyes and dry mouth.
  • Positive RF and ANA: Common in Sjögren’s syndrome, though these markers can also be elevated in other autoimmune diseases.
  • Elevated ESR or CRP: Indicates active inflammation, which may be present in Sjögren’s syndrome but is typically less pronounced than in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Low Complement Levels: May suggest more severe systemic involvement, as seen in lupus or vasculitis, but can occasionally occur in advanced Sjögren’s syndrome.
  • Elevated Immunoglobulins: High IgG levels are typical in Sjögren’s syndrome and reflect chronic immune activation.

Conclusion:

The Rheumatology Profile 7 (Sjogren’s Syndrome) Blood Test is an essential tool for diagnosing Sjögren’s syndrome and distinguishing it from other autoimmune diseases. By assessing key autoantibodies (Anti-Ro/SSA, Anti-La/SSB), inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP), and immunoglobulin levels, this profile provides a comprehensive assessment of autoimmune activity related to Sjögren’s syndrome. It aids in the diagnosis, monitoring, and management of this complex and systemic autoimmune condition.

Results – 10 days from Laboratory receiving sample

Back to Blood Tests