A centromere is the specialized area of the chromosome constriction during metaphase. Autoantibodies to centromere antigens are found in 22% of patients with progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS, or diffuse scleroderma) and in 90% of patients with CREST syndrome (an acronym for: Calcinosis, Raynauds’ syndrome, Esophageal dysmotility, Sclerodactyly, Telangiectasia). A POSITIVE anticentromere antibody finding is therefore strongly indicative of CREST or scleroderma. *: This test is performed as part of the ANA test and does not require a separate specimen.
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