Specific antinuclear antibodies are associated with clinical features in systemic lupus erythematosus. Issue 9 (12th August 2004)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hoffman, I E A; Peene, I; Meheus, L; Huizinga, T W J; Cebecauer, L; Isenberg, D; De Bosschere, K; Hulstaert, F; Veys, E M; De Keyser, F
• Is Part Of: Annals of the rheumatic diseases. Volume 63:Issue 9(2004)
• Page Start: 1155
• Page End: 1158
• Publication Date: 2004-08-12
• Subjects: ANA, antinuclear antibodies -- IIF, indirect immunofluorescence -- LIA, line immunoassay -- SLE, systemic lupus erythematosus; antinuclear antibodies -- systemic lupus erythematosus -- clinical associations; Rheumatism -- Periodicals; 616.723005
• DOI: 10.1136/ard.2003.013417
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-4967

Abstract

Abstract : Objectives: To study associations between antinuclear antibodies (ANA) and signs/symptoms in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods: A consecutive cohort of 289 patients with SLE was included; 235 fulfilled ACR criteria for SLE and were further analysed. ANA profiles were determined by line immunoassay and by indirect immunofluorescence on Crithidia luciliae . An extensive list of signs/symptoms was evaluated. Results: Five clusters of antibodies were defined by cluster analysis: 1—antibodies to SmB, SmD, RNP-A, RNP-C, and RNP-70k; 2—antibodies to Ro52, Ro60, and SSB; 3, 4, and 5—antibodies to ribosomal P, histones and dsDNA, respectively. Significant associations (p⩽0.01) were found between anti-RNP-70k, anti-RNP-A, anti-RNP-C and Raynaud's phenomenon, between anti-RNP-A, anti-RNP-70k and leucopenia, and between anti-RNP-A, anti-RNP-C and a lower prevalence of urine cellular casts. Anti-SSA, anti-SSB were associated with xerostomia, and anti-SSB with pericarditis. Antibodies to ribosomal P were associated with haemolytic anaemia, leucopenia, and alopecia. Patients with anti-dsDNA antibodies had a higher risk for cellular casts and a lower risk for photosensitivity. Antihistone antibodies were associated with arthritis. Conclusions: In a large and consecutive cohort of patients with SLE, clusters of antibodies were identified. Previously reported associations of antibodies with symptoms were confirmed and new associations found.