What is Centromere Antibody?

Centromere Antibodies are a type of antinuclear antibody (ANA) that targets specific proteins found in the centromere, a region of a chromosome where the two sister chromatids attach during cell division.

• These antibodies are commonly found in patients with certain autoimmune diseases, such as systemic sclerosis and CREST syndrome (Calcinosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, Esophageal dysmotility, Sclerodactyly, and Telangiectasia).

• Centromere Antibodies are often detected through a blood test. Presence of these antibodies in blood can be an indicator of an underlying autoimmune disease.

• The detection of Centromere Antibodies is significant in the diagnosis and monitoring of certain autoimmune conditions. However, not all individuals with these antibodies will develop an autoimmune disease.

• Centromere proteins targeted by these antibodies are essential for proper cell division. The antibodies' interaction with these proteins is thought to contribute to the development of certain autoimmune diseases.

• There are several types of Centromere Antibodies, including Centromere B and Centromere A. Different types may be associated with different diseases or different stages of disease.

• The presence of Centromere Antibodies is usually associated with a more favorable prognosis in systemic sclerosis, compared to patients with other types of ANAs.

Understanding the role of Centromere Antibodies in autoimmune diseases continues to be an active area of research. This knowledge is crucial in the development of new diagnostic tools and treatments for these conditions.

The Centromere Antibody test is required in several circumstances. The Centromere Antibody is an autoantibody, a type of antibody that is produced by the immune system and that targets one or more of the individual's own proteins. These circumstances might include:

• When a patient presents symptoms of a systemic autoimmune disease such as systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) or CREST syndrome (Calcinosis, Raynaud phenomenon, Esophageal dysmotility, Sclerodactyly, and Telangiectasia).
• If a patient has been diagnosed with a connective tissue disease and there is a need to determine the specific type or subtype of the disease.
• When the doctor suspects the presence of an autoimmune disease based on the patient's clinical presentation but the ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) test is negative.

The Centromere Antibody test is not for everyone. It is primarily required by certain groups of people. These include:

• People who have symptoms suggestive of a systemic autoimmune disease, especially symptoms of systemic sclerosis or CREST syndrome. These symptoms might include skin tightening, Raynaud's phenomenon (changes in the color of your fingers and toes in response to cold or stress), difficulty swallowing, acid reflux, and red spots or lines on the skin.
• Patients who have been diagnosed with a connective tissue disease but where the specific type or subtype of the disease remains uncertain. The Centromere Antibody test can help in this differentiation.
• Individuals with a negative ANA test but where the clinical suspicion of an autoimmune disease remains high. In such cases, the Centromere Antibody test can help confirm or rule out the disease.

The Centromere Antibody test measures the presence and amount of centromere antibodies in the blood. These include:

• Centromere B Antibody: This is the most commonly detected centromere antibody. It is found in a high proportion of patients with limited systemic sclerosis and CREST syndrome.
• Centromere A Antibody: This antibody is less commonly found but when present, it can also suggest the possibility of systemic sclerosis or CREST syndrome.
• Other Centromere Antibodies: There are other types of centromere antibodies that can also be measured. These are less common and their clinical significance is not as well understood.

• The centromere antibody test is a form of indirect immunofluorescence test. It works by using the patient's blood sample to detect the presence of centromere antibodies.
• These antibodies are autoantibodies, which means they attack the body's own cells. Specifically, they target a protein complex found in the centromere, a part of the chromosome.
• The presence of these antibodies is often associated with certain autoimmune diseases, particularly scleroderma and CREST syndrome.
• The methodology involves taking a blood sample, treating it with a fluorescent dye that binds to the antibodies, and then examining it under a microscope. If the antibodies are present, they will glow under the microscope, indicating a positive result.

• Before the test, it's important for patients to inform their healthcare provider about any medications they are taking, as some drugs can affect the test results.
• There's no specific preparation needed for a centromere antibody test. However, patients may be advised to eat and drink normally before the test, as fasting is not usually required.
• Since the test involves drawing blood, patients should wear short-sleeve shirts or clothing with sleeves that can easily be rolled up.
• Patients should also inform their healthcare provider if they have a history of fainting or feeling lightheaded during blood draws, or if they have a fear of needles.

• The test begins with a healthcare provider cleaning an area of the patient's arm with an antiseptic wipe.
• A tourniquet is then placed around the upper arm to increase the pressure and make the veins more visible.
• The healthcare provider will then insert a needle into a vein. This may cause a brief pinching or stinging sensation.
• Blood is drawn into a tube attached to the needle. Once enough blood has been collected, the needle is removed and a small bandage is applied to the puncture site.
• The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory where it will be tested for the presence of centromere antibodies.

The centromere antibody is a type of autoantibody that targets the centromeres of cells. Centromeres are key components of the cell involved in cell division. These antibodies are often found in patients with certain types of autoimmune diseases.

• Typically, the centromere antibody normal range is 0-0.9 AI, where AI stands for Antibody Index.
• A result above 1.0 AI is usually considered positive, indicating the presence of significant levels of these antibodies in the bloodstream.
• This range can vary slightly depending on the laboratory and testing method used.

An abnormal centromere antibody level, usually higher than the normal range, could be due to a number of factors. These include:

• Autoimmune diseases, such as scleroderma and CREST syndrome. These conditions can cause the immune system to produce antibodies against its own tissues, including the centromeres.
• Lung diseases, such as pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension.
• Raynaud's phenomena, a condition that affects the blood vessels in the fingers and toes.
• Sjogren's syndrome, a disorder of the immune system.

While there is no surefire way to prevent the production of centromere antibodies, certain lifestyle modifications and medical interventions can help maintain a normal range.

• Regular health check-ups: Regular medical examinations can help detect any abnormality in the early stages and prevent further complications.
• Healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep can boost your immune system and help maintain normal antibody levels.
• Stress management: High stress levels can impact your immune system and trigger the production of autoantibodies. Activities such as yoga, meditation, and relaxation exercises can help manage stress.
• Medication: If you are diagnosed with an autoimmune disease or a condition that increases the level of centromere antibodies, your healthcare provider might prescribe medication to regulate your immune system.

After undergoing a centromere antibody test, it is crucial to follow certain precautions and aftercare tips:

• Follow-up tests: If your test results are abnormal, your healthcare provider might recommend follow-up tests to diagnose any potential conditions.
• Medication adherence: If you are prescribed medication, it is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and schedule.
• Regular monitoring: Regular monitoring of your centromere antibody levels can help track the progress of treatment and adjust it if necessary.
• Healthy lifestyle: Continue maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep, to boost your immune system.

Booking your healthcare services with Bajaj Finserv Health gives you the following benefits:

• Precision: Bajaj Finserv Health partners with labs that utilize advanced technologies to deliver the most precise outcomes.
• Cost-efficiency: Our individual diagnostic tests and services are comprehensive without being a burden on your wallet.
• Home-based sample collection: We offer the convenience of collecting your samples from your home at a time that suits you best.
• Nationwide reach: No matter where you are located in the country, our medical test services are accessible to you.
• Flexible payment options: You have the freedom to choose from available payment modes, be it cash or digital.