Anti-Centromere Antibody

Department of Immunology

Notes

• Anti-centromere antibody is a marker for the CREST variant of scleroderma. The specificity of this test is >98%.
• Positive centromere antibodies are also found in primary biliary cirrhosis, of whom half may have features of scleroderma (progressive systematic sclerosis).
• Performed automatically if centromere pattern observed on ANA.

Sample Requirements

Clotted blood. (No patient preparation or special handling required).

Adult

5ml Gold-top SST tube or 3.5 ml Rust-top gel tube (Trust users only).

Paediatric

1ml Paediatric Serum sample.

Time limit for add-on

3 days

Turnaround Times

10 days