Antibody to Centromere Proteins (Anti-Centromere Antibody, ACA)
This test measures antibodies against centromere proteins, often used to diagnose limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (lcSSc) or CREST syndrome.
["This test helps identify a rare autoimmune condition affecting skin and organs."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 54002-1
- Short code
- CENPF
- Synonyms
- Centromere F Ab Titr Ser IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube without anticoagulant
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 1
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
- CPT
- 86255
- SNOMED
- 313916003
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Serum stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; for extended storage, freeze at -20°C or below. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is This Test Measuring?
The test detects the presence of antibodies targeting specific proteins found in the centromeres of chromosomes. These antibodies are linked to a specific autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the skin and internal organs, such as the lungs and heart.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like skin thickening, Raynaud’s phenomenon (fingertip color changes), or other signs of limited systemic sclerosis (lcSSc) or CREST syndrome. It helps confirm a diagnosis by identifying the characteristic antibody profile.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of anti-centromere antibodies, strongly suggesting limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (lcSSc) or CREST syndrome. This finding is highly specific to these conditions and helps guide treatment and management plans.
What Does a Negative Result Mean?
A negative result means the test did not detect the specific antibodies linked to limited systemic sclerosis or CREST syndrome. However, other autoimmune conditions or unrelated health issues could still be present, so further evaluation may be needed.
Reference range
Negative: <1:40; Positive: ≥1:40. Titers ≥1:80 are considered clinically significant.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary for this test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Centromere Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
How often do you experience symptoms like skin changes, joint pain, or Raynaud’s phenomenon?
Is this test covered by insurance?
What are the typical follow-up steps if my test results are positive?
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