
Anti SS-A / Ro (Antibody Serum Soluble Substance -A Antibody)
Anti SS-A / Ro (Antibody Serum Soluble Substance -A Antibody)
Anti SS-A / Ro antibodies are immune system autoantibodies that target the SSA protein (also known as Ro antigen), which is found in many cells throughout the body. These antibodies are associated with several different connective tissue diseases.
An anti SS-A /Ro antibody test detects and measures the levels of anti SS-A proteins in the blood of an individual. This test is helpful in the diagnosis of different autoimmune conditions such as Sjogren’s syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and neonatal lupus
Symptoms of connective tissue diseases:
A few common symptoms of connective tissue diseases include:

Muscle and joint pain

Tenderness and swelling of the joints

Dry lips, skin, and throat

Fatigue

Shortness of breath

Chest discomfort

Poor memory

Blurry vision

Tooth decay and other dental issues
Who should get tested?
The Anti SS-A/Ro test is recommended in individuals who have

A family history of connective tissue disorders such as Sjogren’s syndrome

Autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis

Low vitamin D and C along with inadequate nutrition

Certain viral or bacterial infections
Test preparation
No special preparations are required for the Anti SS-A/Ro (Antibody Serum Soluble Substance – A Antibody) test.
Please talk to your healthcare provider if you are on any medications before taking the test.
Interpretation of the Test Results
Interpretation |
SS-A/Ro antibody, serum reference values |
Negative |
<1.0 U |
Positive |
> or =1.0 U |
Deviations from the normal range:
· If your SS-A/Ro antibody level is less than 1.0, your test result is negative, and you most likely do not have a connective tissue disease.
If your SS-A/Ro antibody level is higher than or equal to 1.0 U, your test result is positive. It is indicative of connective tissue diseases such as Sjogren’s syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, etc
FAQs
What is the turnaround time (TAT) of Anti SS-A/Ro test?
The test results of anti SS-A/Ro antibody test are generally available within 4–5 business days after the sample collection. However, it could also take a little longer at times
Are there any risks associated with Anti SS-A/Ro test?
No, there are no potential risks associated with Anti SS-A/Ro test. It is a simple blood test and may involve negligible risk, such as feeling a slight sting or a bruise at the site of sample collection. It usually resolves within a few minutes to a few hours. Rarely, the site can become infected
What medications can affect the test results of Anti SS-A/Ro test?
Certain medications belonging to different classes, such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and diuretics, can affect the test results of anti SS-A/Ro test. Please talk to your healthcare provider before taking the test if you are required to take medications from among these classes
Which body parts are affected by Sjogren’s syndrome?
Sjogren’s syndrome is believed to affect various parts of the body, including the heart, kidneys, brain, bones, muscles, etc
Is Sjogren's syndrome linked to an increased risk of heart disease?
Yes, Sjogren's syndrome can increase the risk of cardiac problems. In fact, as compared to the general population, affected individuals may be at a higher risk of cardiovascular events such as stroke and heart attack