Antiscleroderma Antibody

Test Description

The antiscleroderma antibody is found in individuals with progressive systemic sclerosis
(scleroderma) and individuals with CREST syndrome. CREST syndrome is
characterized by calcinosis, Raynaud’s phenomenon, esophageal dysfunction, sclerodactyly,
and telangiectasia. Positive results with this test are considered highly
diagnostic of scleroderma, because the antibody is found only rarely in diseases
such as mixed connective tissue disease, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome,
and systemic lupus erythematosus.

Normal Values

Negative


Possible Meanings of Abnormal Values

Positive
CREST syndrome
Scleroderma

Contributing Factors to Abnormal Values

• Drugs that may increase antiscleroderma antibody levels: aminosalicylic acid, isoniazid,
methyldopa, penicillin, propylthiouracil, streptomycin, tetracycline
.
Interventions/Implications

Pretest

• Explain to the patient the purpose of the test and the need for a blood sample to be drawn.
• No fasting is required before the test.

Procedure

• A 7-mL blood sample is drawn in a red-top collection tube.
• Gloves are worn throughout the procedure.

Posttest
• Apply pressure at venipuncture site. Apply dressing, periodically assessing for continued
 bleeding.
• Label the specimen and transport it to the laboratory.
• Report abnormal findings to the primary care provider.