Which autoantibody is specific for Sjögren's syndrome?

• A. Anti-DNA and Anti-Smith
• B. Anti-Ro/SS-A, Anti-La/SS-B
• C. Anti-Gliadin and Anti-Transglutaminase
• D. Anti-Ro/SS-1, Anti-La-SS-2

Answer: (B)

Autoimmune sicca symptoms are most strongly linked to antibodies against Ro/SS-A and La/SS-B. These two autoantibodies are the hallmark serologic markers for Sjögren's syndrome and, when present with compatible clinical features (like dry eyes and dry mouth or salivary gland involvement), they strongly support the diagnosis. They can also appear in other autoimmune diseases such as SLE, so they’re not absolutely exclusive to Sjögren's, but they are the best-known and most specific serologic clues for this condition. The other antibodies listed point to different diseases: anti-DNA and anti-Smith are classic for SLE, and anti-gliadin with anti-transglutaminase indicates celiac disease. The Ro/SS-A and La/SS-B combination is the standard set associated with Sjögren's.