Anti SSB / La (Antibody Serum Soluble Substance -B Antibody)
Anti SSB / La (Antibody Serum Soluble Substance -B Antibody)
The Anti SSB / La (Antibody Serum Soluble Substance - B Antibody) test is carried out to check for the presence of SSB antibodies in the blood and assess patients who show symptoms and signs of connective tissue disease. Patients with positive antinuclear antibody test results are subjected to this test, particularly if they exhibit symptoms of lupus erythematosus, Sjogren syndrome, or rheumatoid arthritis.
Connective tissue disease occurs when the immune system attacks the tissues that connect the various body structures. Elastin and collagen are the two main proteins found in connective tissues. Elastin is the main component of skin and ligaments, resembling a rubber band. Collagen protein is found in bones, cartilage, blood vessels, tendons, ligaments, and skin.
Healthcare providers may order an Anti SSB / La (Antibody Serum Soluble Substance - B Antibody) test to diagnose autoimmune diseases like lupus, Sjogren syndrome, etc.
Symptoms of connective tissue diseases
Joint pain
Tenderness and swelling of the joint
Stiffness of joints
Fatigue
Difficulty in breathing
Chest discomfort or pain
Cough with bloody phlegm
Test preparation
No special preparation is required for the Anti SSB / La (Antibody Serum Soluble Substance - B Antibody) test.
Interpretation of the Test Results
Antibody results in Units (U)
|
Interpretation |
SSB / La antibody, serum reference values |
|
Negative |
<1.0 U |
|
Positive |
> or =1.0 U |
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Deviation from normal levels indicates the following:
·      If your SS-B/La 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-B/La 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 lupus erythematosus, Sjogren syndrome, etc
FAQs
How is the sample collected for an Anti SSB / La (Antibody Serum Soluble Substance -B Antibody) test?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a small needle. Usually, this process does not take more than 5 minutes
What are the risks associated with an Anti SSB / La (Antibody Serum Soluble Substance -B Antibody) blood test?
This test involves negligible risk. There might be slight soreness or tenderness around the site where the blood is drawn. Rarely, the site can become infected
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the Anti SSB / La (Antibody Serum Soluble Substance -B Antibody) test?
The test result of an Anti SSB / La (Antibody Serum Soluble Substance -B Antibody) is usually available within 4 days after the sample collection. However, it could take longer at times
When is an Anti SSB / La (Antibody Serum Soluble Substance -B Antibody) test done?
Doctors may recommend this test if they believe the patient has rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren's syndrome, or lupus erythematosus (LE). This test is performed on individuals with antinuclear antibodies who are experiencing connective tissue disease symptoms like muscle pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, etc
What are the treatments for connective tissue disorders?
As there are so many different types of connective tissue disorders, the treatment will depend on the particular disease. Additionally, it differs from person to person. Examples of common treatments include physical therapy, vitamin supplements, and medications
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