Ribosomal P

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The page below is a sample from the LabCE course Antinuclear Antibody Testing: Methods and Pattern Interpretation. Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

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Ribosomal P

This sample contains anti-ribosomal P antibodies.

About 50% of the time when a sample contains anti-ribosomal antibodies, a positive nucleolar ANA is present along with fine granular staining in the cytoplasm. The other 50% of the time the nucleolar ANA is NOT present and only the fine granular cytoplasmic staining is seen. Therefore, depending on the status of the staining in the nucleus of the interphase cells, anti-ribosomal P antibodies can be either ANA positive or negative.

The sample that is seen in this image is reported as ANA positive, Nucleolar (a), and (because of the strong cytoplasmic speckling (b)), suspect anti-ribosomal P antibodies present. Follow-up testing would include testing for anti-ribosomal P antibodies. Anti-ribosomal P antibodies are very specific for patients with SLE.

Ribosomal Autoantibodies:

Cytoplasmic pattern

  • "Cloudy" fine speckling in cytoplasm
  • Some samples may demonstrate nucleolar ANA