One of the advantages of using the HEp-2000® substrate is the ability to identify the presence of anti-SS-A/Ro antibodies during the ANA screen. In the mixed homogeneous and SS-A/Ro pattern, the interphase cells typically have smooth staining of the entire nucleus (homogeneous) (a), with metaphase mitotic cells having smooth staining of the chromosome region (b).
In cases of mixed homogeneous and SS-A/Ro, follow-up testing for anti-dsDNA and anti-ENA antibodies is necessary. When mixed patterns are titered, the endpoint for each pattern is reported.
This pattern is reported as "ANA positive, Homogeneous and SS-A/Ro pattern, anti-SSA/Ro antibodies present; titering is necessary."
