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When evaluating patients with signs and symptoms of autoimmune tissue disease and a positive test for antinuclear antibodies (ANA), it is important to consider specific autoantibodies, such as those against SS-A (Ro) and SS-B (La), which are commonly associated with various autoimmune conditions.

• SS-A (Ro): This antigen, also known as Ro, is primarily linked to Sjogren's syndrome, where antibodies against SS-A are found in 40-95% of cases. They are also present in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) (20-60%), primary biliary cirrhosis (about 20%), and occasionally in chronic active hepatitis.

• SS-B (La): This antigen, also known as La, is similarly associated with Sjogren's syndrome (40-95%) and SLE (10-20%). Antibodies against SS-B are more commonly found in women, with a ratio of 29:1, and they are a significant marker in diagnosing these conditions.

These antibodies are key in diagnosing autoimmune diseases, particularly Sjogren's syndrome and SLE, and their presence can help guide clinical management and treatment decisions.