To recognize the connective tissue diseases (CTD), which include lupus erythematosus (SLE), Sjögren's syndrome (SS) and Systemic sclerosis (SSc) it is necessary to determine the presence of autoantibodies (Ab). There is still work going on to find effective and equivocal detection methods.
To evaluate the usefulness, clinical value and innovativeness of the Polycheck method in the detection of autoantibodies in patients with connective tissue diseases.
The study involved 178 people: 153 patients of the Department of Rheumatology and 25 healthy people. According to the main diagnosis the patients were divided into 3 groups: SLE-59, ZS-45, SSc-49. The presence and concentrations of Ab were determined by using multiparametric enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay Polycheck Rheuma (Biocheck, GmbH, Münster, Germany). Statistical data analysis was performed using Statistica v10.0.
In our study we found thatthe frequency of antibodies characteristic of the SS: anti-SS-A/Ro 52, anti-SS-A Ro 60 and anti-SS-B/La was significantly higher in patients with SS group compared to TRU, TU, and GK (p <0.05); concentrations of Ab were lower in TRU and in SSc group. Marker Ab for SLE anti-dsDNA were only present in patients with SLE. Anti-Sm antibodies were more common in this patient population too. Antibodies associated with diagnosis of SSc anti-SCL-70 and anti-CENP B were significantly more often observed in patients with SSc in higher concentrations compared to the other groups examined (anti-SCL-70 p<0,0005). The Ab concentration analysis performed with use of this analysis help us to confirm diagnosis in particular patients.
The multiparametric enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay Polycheck Rheuma is helpful in making a quick and comprehensive identification of autoantibodies in pts with suspected CTD. The concentration analysis performed with use of this method enables an accurate diagnosis despite the ambiguous clinical picture.