Scleroderma Panel Test
Short Name: SCL Panel
Also known as: Systemic Sclerosis Panel, Anti-Scl-70 and Anti-Centromere Antibody Test, Scleroderma Antibody Panel, Scleroderma Serology Test
Scleroderma Panel Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹3,500. Uses Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) on Serum samples. Results in Same day (for samples received Tuesday or Friday by 9:00 AM). Reports are delivered via online portal, email, and WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Pasupathy Arumugam
Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The Scleroderma Panel Test is performed to detect autoantibodies—specifically Anti-Scl-70 and Anti-Centromere Antibodies—that are commonly present in patients with systemic sclerosis (scleroderma). This test aids in confirming a clinical diagnosis, differentiating between the limited and diffuse subtypes of the disease, assessing the risk of internal organ involvement (particularly pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension), and guiding treatment decisions. It is also used for monitoring disease progression and evaluating patients with overlapping autoimmune conditions.
- Test Code
- 1412
- CPT Code
- 86000
- ICD Code
- M34
- Price
- ₹3,500
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Same day (for samples received Tuesday or Friday by 9:00 AM). Reports are delivered via online portal, email, and WhatsApp.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA)
Sample Collection
No fasting or special preparation is required. Inform your physician about any current medications, particularly immunosuppressants or immunoglobulin therapies, as these may influence antibody levels.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A trained phlebotomist will collect approximately 3 mL of venous blood using standard venipuncture technique. The blood is drawn into a Serum Separator Tube (SST). The procedure typically takes less than 5 minutes.
Report Delivery
Apply gentle pressure to the puncture site with cotton for 3-5 minutes to prevent bruising. You may resume normal activities immediately after sample collection. The sample is processed in our NABL-accredited laboratory using Enzyme Immunoassay methodology.
Timeline: Same day (for samples received Tuesday or Friday by 9:00 AM). Reports are delivered via online portal, email, and WhatsApp.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The Scleroderma Panel Test is performed to detect autoantibodies—specifically Anti-Scl-70 and Anti-Centromere Antibodies—that are commonly present in patients with systemic sclerosis (scleroderma). This test aids in confirming a clinical diagnosis, differentiating between the limited and diffuse subtypes of the disease, assessing the risk of internal organ involvement (particularly pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension), and guiding treatment decisions. It is also used for monitoring disease progression and evaluating patients with overlapping autoimmune conditions.
How to Prepare
- No fasting required before sample collection
- Stay well hydrated prior to blood draw
- Inform the phlebotomist about any current medications or recent immunoglobulin therapy
- Wear loose-fitting sleeves for easy access to the arm
- Avoid strenuous exercise immediately before the test
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"The Scleroderma Panel Test is a critical tool in the early serological workup of patients presenting with Raynaud's phenomenon, skin thickening, or unexplained interstitial lung disease. Scl-70 antibody positivity is strongly associated with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis and a higher risk of pulmonary fibrosis, while anti-centromere antibodies are more indicative of limited cutaneous disease with a greater risk for pulmonary arterial hypertension. Identifying the antibody profile early helps rheumatologists stratify risk, guide monitoring protocols, and initiate targeted therapy before irreversible organ damage occurs. I recommend this panel for any patient with clinical features suggestive of systemic sclerosis or overlap connective tissue disease."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Haemolysed, lipaemic, or contaminated serum sample
- Sample collected in an incorrect tube type (non-SST)
- Insufficient sample volume (less than 1 mL serum)
- Sample not stored or shipped at required temperature
- Unlabelled or mismatched sample and requisition form
Understanding Your Results
Anti-Scl-70 Positive
Suggestive of diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (dcSSc). Associated with widespread skin thickening, increased risk of pulmonary fibrosis, and higher mortality. Pulmonary function tests and HRCT chest are recommended.
Clinical action: Refer to rheumatology. Initiate pulmonary monitoring. Consider immunosuppressive therapy.
Anti-Centromere Positive
Suggestive of limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (lcSSc) or CREST syndrome. Lower risk of pulmonary fibrosis but elevated risk of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
Clinical action: Refer to rheumatology. Regular echocardiographic screening for PAH recommended.
Both Negative
Neither Anti-Scl-70 nor Anti-Centromere antibodies were detected. Scleroderma cannot be completely excluded as some patients may have other antibodies (e.g., anti-RNA Polymerase III).
Clinical action: Consider extended antibody panel if clinical suspicion remains. Correlate with ANA and clinical findings.
Borderline / Equivocal
Results near the cut-off value. Repeat testing in 4-6 weeks is recommended to confirm or exclude the presence of antibodies.
Clinical action: Repeat testing. Monitor symptoms. Consider additional serological evaluation.
Consult a rheumatologist or immunologist if your Scleroderma Panel Test results are positive or equivocal, or if you are experiencing symptoms such as Raynaud's phenomenon, skin tightening, unexplained shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, or joint stiffness. Early specialist evaluation is essential for initiating appropriate treatment, monitoring organ involvement, and preventing disease-related complications.
Limitations
- ⚠This panel tests for two primary scleroderma-associated antibodies and does not cover all possible autoantibodies (e.g., anti-RNA Polymerase III, anti-Th/To, anti-Pm-Scl)
- ⚠A negative result does not completely exclude scleroderma; clinical correlation and additional testing may be required
- ⚠Antibody levels may vary over the course of the disease and may not always correlate with disease severity
- ⚠Results should always be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings, ANA results, and imaging studies
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or discomfort at the venipuncture site
- ●Slight risk of infection at the puncture site (very rare with standard aseptic technique)
- ●Lightheadedness or dizziness during blood draw (transient)
Interfering Factors
- ●Haemolytic or lipaemic serum samples may affect assay accuracy
- ●Recent immunoglobulin therapy or immunosuppressive treatment may suppress antibody levels
- ●Cross-reactivity with other autoimmune antibodies may rarely produce borderline results
- ●Sample stored improperly (not refrigerated or frozen) may yield degraded results
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Scleroderma Panel Test | ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) Test | Extended Autoimmune Panel | Rheumatoid Factor (RF) Test | ESR / CRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Scleroderma Panel Test | ANA is a broad screening test for autoimmune diseases and is often the first step in evaluation. The Scleroderma Panel is a more specific follow-up test that identifies particular antibody profiles associated with scleroderma subtypes. | An extended autoimmune panel may include a wider range of antibodies such as anti-dsDNA, anti-Smith, anti-Jo-1, and anti-RNP. The Scleroderma Panel focuses specifically on Scl-70 and Centromere antibodies for targeted scleroderma evaluation. | RF is primarily used for diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis. The Scleroderma Panel is specifically designed for systemic sclerosis and does not overlap with RF testing. | ESR and CRP are non-specific markers of inflammation. They may be elevated in scleroderma but do not provide a specific diagnosis. The Scleroderma Panel offers disease-specific serological confirmation. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Scleroderma Panel Test?
Who should get the Scleroderma Panel Test?
What does a positive Anti-Scl-70 result mean?
What does a positive Anti-Centromere result mean?
Do I need to fast before the Scleroderma Panel Test?
What sample is required for this test?
How much does the Scleroderma Panel Test cost at DNA Labs India?
Is home sample collection available for the Scleroderma Panel Test?
Can a negative Scleroderma Panel result rule out scleroderma?
What is the turnaround time for the Scleroderma Panel Test report?
Is the Scleroderma Panel Test covered by health insurance in India?
How is the Scleroderma Panel Test different from an ANA test?
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