QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
SLE is a condition with a complex autoimmune background. There are many different antibodies implicated in SLE, but the most specific antibodies are those targeted against double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA). Although highly specific (>99%), anti-dsDNA is less sensitive (~70%).
10000466
a
Anti-dsDNA
QuestionChoice
This antibody is typically associated with diffuse systemic sclerosis, though is sometimes also present in SLE patients. It is therefore not the most specific antibody test for the diagnosis of SLE.
10000470
e
Anti-scl-70
QuestionChoice
An extremely sensitive test but with poor specificity, anti-nuclear antibodies are positive in most SLE patients but are also positive in a range of other autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren's or systemic sclerosis.
10000467
b
Anti-nuclear antibodies
QuestionChoice
Although anti-ro antibodies may be positive in SLE, they are not a very specific test. Anti-ro antibodies are also positive in ~70% of Sjögren's patients, and so are not the most specific test here.
10000468
c
Anti-Ro
QuestionChoice
Another non-specific antibody which may be positive in SLE, rheumatoid factor is positive in a wide spectrum of autoimmune conditions including rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren syndrome.
10000469
d
Rheumatoid factor
Concept
Chapter
2693
3770
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Topic
146
Rheumatology
12640
A 36-year-old female presents to the clinic with a 4-month history of fatigue, facial rash, and arthralgia. Examination reveals a malar rash and after further investigation, the patient is diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Which of the following antibody tests is most specific for SLE?
a