Centromere Antibody (Serum) - Autoimmune Antibody Profile
This test measures antibodies against centromere proteins, which may indicate a rare autoimmune disorder called limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (lcSSc).
["This test helps diagnose or monitor a specific type of scleroderma."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53981-7
- Short code
- CENTB
- Synonyms
- Centromere B Ab Ser Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red top tube with clot activator
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 1
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or Multiplex bead-based immunoassay
- CPT
- 83516
- SNOMED
- 37725009
- Specimen volume
- 1.0 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 20
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is This Test Measuring?
The test detects the presence of antibodies targeting centromere proteins found in cells. These antibodies are linked to a subset of autoimmune diseases affecting the skin and connective tissues.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like skin tightening, Raynaud’s phenomenon, or other signs of limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (lcSSc), a form of scleroderma. It can also help confirm a diagnosis or assess disease activity.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum, which is then tested for centromere antibodies.
What Are Common Symptoms to Watch For?
Symptoms of conditions this test may help identify include skin hardening and thickening (especially on hands, face, or arms), joint pain, Raynaud’s phenomenon (fingers/toes turning white/blue in cold), or digestive issues.
Reference range
Negative: <1.0 AI (Antibody Index) or negative by IFA at 1:40 dilution; Positive: ≥1.0 AI or positive titerN/A
No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Centromere Antibody
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test be used to monitor disease progression?
Are there any risks or side effects from this blood test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy