The clinical significance of antinucleolar antibodies. Issue 3 (27th February 2008)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Khan, S; Alvi, A; Holding, S; Kemp, M L; Raine, D; Doré, P C; Sewell, W A C
• Is Part Of: Journal of clinical pathology. Volume 61:Issue 3(2008)
• Page Start: 283
• Page End: 286
• Publication Date: 2008-02-27
• Subjects: Pathology -- Periodicals; Pathology, Molecular -- Periodicals; 616.0705
• DOI: 10.1136/jcp.2007.049692
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0021-9746

Abstract

Abstract : Background: The importance of antinucleolar antibodies seen by indirect immunofluorescence on HEp-2 cells, although associated with systemic sclerosis (SSc), in unselected patients is unknown. Aims: To determine the true clinical significance of antinucleolar antibodies in an unselected patient population. Methods: Antinucleolar antibody (ANoA) positive samples were identified in the immunology laboratory during routine autoimmune screening tests; case notes were reviewed using a standard proforma. Results: 104 patients with ANoA were identified and ANoA + samples were subclassified into homogeneous, clumpy and speckled antinucleolar types. SSc was evident in only two (1.8%) patients. Other connective tissue diseases were identified in 33 patients (32%); 22 patients (21%) had evidence of various malignancies. Both disordered liver function and anaemia were seen in 22 patients and were the commonest laboratory abnormalities. Conclusions: Neither the presence nor subtype of ANoA is specific for systemic sclerosis. Laboratory comments appended to results should reflect this fact.