TESTING TOOLS

In a patient where you suspect connective tissue disease (CTD), consider performing serologic testing.

In a patient where you suspect connective tissue disease (CTD) consider performing serologic testing.

Serologic tests can point to possible autoimmune disorders1-3

ANA, RF, Anti-CCP
  • Arthritis
  • Rash
  • Morning stiffness
CK, Aldolase, Anti-Jo1
  • Mechanic's hands
  • Proximal muscle pain
  • Heliotrope rash
  • Raynaud's phenomenon
Scl-70
  • Skin thickening
  • Esophageal symptoms
  • Raynaud's phenomenon
SS-A, SS-B
  • Dry mouth
  • Dry eyes

ANA, antinuclear antibody; CCP, cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody; CK, creatine kinase; RF, rheumatoid factor; SS-A/-B, Sjögren's antibodies; Scl-70, topoisomerase 1; Jo1, histidyl-tRNA synthetase.


1. Raghu G et al. Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2011;183(6):788-824. 2. Satoh M et al. Mod Rheumatol. 2009;19(3):219-228. 3. Vij R et al. Chest. 2013;143(3):814-824.