Anti-Sjögren Antibodies SS-A/SS-B (Ro/La)
The anti-SS-A (Ro) and anti-SS-B (La) tests detect antibodies against specific proteins in your cells. They are used mainly when Sjögren's disease or related autoimmune conditions are being considered.
Because these antibodies are commonly linked to Sjögren's disease, marked by dry eyes and dry mouth, and can also appear in lupus and other connective-tissue conditions. They help a clinician sort out the cause of symptoms and are relevant in pregnancy planning, since they can affect the baby. The results add specificity to a broader autoimmune workup.
Positive anti-SS-A and/or anti-SS-B can be associated with Sjögren's disease and sometimes lupus or overlapping connective-tissue conditions. These antibodies are also important in pregnancy because they can, in some cases, affect the developing baby, so a positive result may prompt additional monitoring. Your clinician interprets them alongside symptoms and other tests.
A negative result makes these antibody-associated conditions less likely but does not fully rule them out, since some people with Sjögren's test negative. Your clinician considers it together with your symptoms, ANA, and other findings.
A negative result is typical. Any positive result should be interpreted by your clinician in the context of your symptoms, other autoimmune testing, and, where relevant, pregnancy planning.
Sources
Educational context only, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Reference ranges vary by lab, age and sex; always discuss your results with a clinician.