A 50-year-old woman presents with xerophthalmia, xerostomia, and bilateral parotid enlargement. Minor salivary gland biopsy shows periductal lymphocytic infiltration. The most specific autoantibody associated with primary Sjogren syndrome is:
- A Anti-dsDNA
- B Anti-Ro (SSA) and anti-La (SSB) ✓
- C Anti-Scl-70 (anti-topoisomerase I)
- D Anti-centromere antibodies
Correct answer: B. Anti-Ro (SSA) and anti-La (SSB)
Explanation
Anti-Ro/SSA and anti-La/SSB antibodies are the most specific autoantibodies in primary Sjogren syndrome and are used in classification criteria. They target RNA-binding proteins. Anti-dsDNA is specific for SLE; anti-Scl-70 is specific for diffuse systemic sclerosis; anti-centromere antibodies are associated with limited systemic sclerosis (CREST syndrome).
Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.