Markers in CREST Syndrome
The primary marker seen in CREST syndrome is anticentromere antibody, which is present in 98% of patients with this condition. 1
Primary Serologic Marker
Anticentromere antibody is the hallmark serologic marker of CREST syndrome, producing a discrete speckled pattern of immunofluorescence on HEp-2 cells and reacting specifically with the centromeric region of metaphase chromosomes. 1
This antibody is found in high titers (>1:80) in 26 of 27 patients (98%) with CREST syndrome, making it highly sensitive and relatively specific for this condition. 1
Specificity Considerations
While highly associated with CREST syndrome, anticentromere antibodies can occasionally be found in other conditions, though at much lower frequencies:
The antibody is not detected in rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome, linear scleroderma, or age-matched controls with osteoarthritis. 1
Clinical Significance
Anticentromere antibodies can appear early in the disease course, sometimes when only Raynaud's phenomenon is present and before the full CREST syndrome (Calcinosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, Esophageal dysmotility, Sclerodactyly, Telangiectasia) becomes clinically apparent. 1
Other autoantibodies commonly found in connective tissue diseases (anti-DNA, anti-RNP, anti-SS-B) are not found in CREST syndrome patients, further distinguishing this as a unique serologic entity. 1
Note: The question appears to reference "CRET syndrome," but based on the clinical context and available evidence, this refers to CREST syndrome (also known as limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis), not carcinoid syndrome or medullary thyroid carcinoma, which are associated with calcitonin and CEA markers discussed in the other provided evidence.