Centromere Antibody (Serum) – Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH) Test

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like skin changes (e.g., tight, thick skin), joint pain, or other signs of autoimmune disease. It’s sometimes used alongside other tests to confirm a diagnosis of conditions like limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis or CREST syndrome.

The test uses a specialized method called fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) to detect specific antibodies in your serum. Fluorescent probes bind to centromeric DNA on chromosomes, allowing for visual identification under a microscope.

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, typically drawn from your arm. The sample is then processed in a lab to analyze for centromere antibodies.

Positive results indicate the presence of centromere antibodies, which may suggest an autoimmune condition. However, further testing and clinical correlation are needed to determine the exact diagnosis.

A positive result does not definitively diagnose systemic sclerosis or another autoimmune disorder. It may prompt additional testing, such as skin biopsy or other antibody panels, to guide treatment and management.

Centromere antibodies are most strongly linked to limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (LCSS) and CREST syndrome, but they can also appear in other autoimmune conditions or without a clear diagnosis.

These antibodies are associated with inflammation and immune system dysfunction, potentially affecting connective tissues and organs. Early detection can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression.