Anti-Scl-70 Antibody

Scleroderma, a connective tissue disorder that affects the skin as well as other tissues like blood vessels and the digestive tract, is linked to the presence of anti-Scl 70 antibodies. It is an autoimmune disease, and people with this condition also have Sjogren's Syndrome or Rheumatoid Arthritis. 

The risk factors for scleroderma include genetics, family medical history, chronic sickness, or exposure to specific toxic substances. Scleroderma may impact different people in various ways. 

Scleroderma can be detected by higher blood levels of the anti-Scl 70 antibodies. There is currently no treatment for scleroderma. The doctor may begin pharmacological therapy to alleviate symptoms and halt the spread of the disease based on the indications. Certain lifestyle modifications can be made to remain healthy while living with scleroderma, such as quitting smoking, exercising regularly, and eliminating foods that give you heartburn. 

Common side effects of scleroderma include:  

• Tightening of the skin
• Blue or numb fingers or toes in cold weather 
• Indigestion 
• Bloating 
• Cramps 
• Nausea 
• Diarrhoea 

Some long-term health consequences include:  

• Chronic digestive problems 
• Lung capacity loss 
• High blood cholesterol 
• Heart failure 
• Kidney illness 
• Sexual problems 
• Loss of blood supply to toes and fingers  

The Anti-Scleroderma 70 Antibody test from Apollo 24|7 helps detect the anti-Scl 70 antibodies in the bloodstream. A positive Anti-Scleroderma 70 Antibody test result indicates scleroderma as well as other connective tissue disorders.  

You can take an Anti-Scleroderma 70 Antibody test without fasting. Some medications like tetracycline, methyldopa, propylthiouracil, aminosalicylic acid, isoniazid, penicillin, and streptomycin may raise the level of Scl-70 antibodies in the body. Hence, you should inform your doctor if you are taking such medicines before the test.

For an Anti-Scleroderma 70 Antibody test, a blood specimen is necessary. The appropriate amount of blood is drawn from a vein in the arm by the physician. Usually, this process only needs a few minutes. After the test, you might get a bruise where the needle was inserted, but it will heal in a few days. 

A normal result for Anti-Scleroderma 70 Antibody test is indicated as negative. Scl-70 antibody concentrations less than or comparable to 29 AU/mL are regarded as normal. A normal outcome, however, does not always rule out scleroderma. Based on your medical history, your current symptoms, and the findings of previous autoantibody tests, your physician will evaluate your test results. An abnormal test result is characterised as positive. 

An Anti-Scleroderma 70 Antibody test result is not always positive in individuals with scleroderma, and a negative outcome does not necessarily rule out the presence of the condition. Your doctor will need to do additional examinations and tests before making a diagnosis. Additional tests, such as an antinuclear antibodies (ANA) test, can aid in supplying more details. Patients without detectable antinuclear antibodies cannot benefit from Scl 70 testing. 
 

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ravichandran G, Sr. Dermatologist, Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
 

Frequently asked questions

How does the Anti-Scleroderma 70 Antibody test work?

This examination searches the bloodstream for anti-Scleroderma-70 antibodies. Scleroderma, a connective tissue disorder that impacts the skin as well as other tissues, the digestive tract, blood vessels, and organs, is frequently linked to the existence of anti-Scl 70 antibodies.

Which antibodies are generally positive in scleroderma?

Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) are tested positive in about 95% of those with Systemic Scleroderma, although they are also positive in those with other autoimmune illnesses. Localised scleroderma patients typically have negative ANA results.

Can scleroderma exist without antibodies?

Scleroderma patients without illness-related autoantibodies exhibit a clinically different profile, including the early beginning of the disease, variations in skin thickness, and a higher percentage of individuals with diffuse disease.

Does scleroderma have an autoimmune component?&

Scleroderma is believed to be an autoimmune condition. This indicates that it originates in part as a result of the body’s immune system attacking its own cells. Sjogren's syndrome, Lupus, or Rheumatoid Arthritis are a few examples of autoimmune diseases that can exhibit symptoms in people with scleroderma

Where does scleroderma normally begin?

Typically, the fingers, hands, feet, and face are the first bodily areas to be afflicted. Some individuals may experience thickening of the skin in the upper arms, thighs, chest, lower legs, forearms, and abdomen. The two initial signs of scleroderma are itching and swelling.

Can scleroderma be life-threatening?

Scleroderma leads to an inflammation reaction in the lung alveoli, which leads to a restrictive ventilatory deficit. If left unaddressed, this causes a condition known as Fibrosing Alveolitis, which impedes the normal passage of gases from the air to the bloodstream.