Anti-La (SSB) antibody test
Quick answer: This blood test looks for antibodies against the La (SSB) protein. Doctors usually order it with anti-Ro when Sjogren's syndrome or lupus is suspected.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careLike anti-Ro, this antibody in pregnancy can rarely affect the baby's heart rhythm, so doctors may plan extra monitoring.
How the test is done
- 1A nurse checks your details and the request form
- 2A tourniquet is tied and a vein chosen
- 3Blood is drawn into a tube
- 4The lab tests the sample for La (SSB) antibodies
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive result does not by itself confirm a disease, because some healthy people test positive; your doctor reads it with your symptoms and other tests.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result can be seen with Sjogren's syndrome and lupus, usually together with anti-Ro. In pregnancy it can rarely be linked to heart rhythm problems in the baby.
Who usually has this test
People with dry eyes or mouth, or lupus features, and women with these antibodies or autoimmune disease planning pregnancy.
Risks and aftercare
You may have slight soreness at the needle site for a day.
Names and options
Also called: SSB, anti-La, La/SSB
Listed by the hospital as
- SSB - LA ANTIBODY, SERUM
Questions about this test
Is anti-La usually found on its own?
It is uncommon to have anti-La without anti-Ro. That is why the two are nearly always tested and read together.
Does anti-La mean I have Sjogren's syndrome?
Not by itself. It supports the diagnosis along with symptoms, eye and mouth dryness tests and sometimes a lip biopsy.
What happens in pregnancy if I have anti-La?
Most babies are not affected. Doctors may suggest regular checks of the baby's heart rate between about 16 and 26 weeks so any problem is picked up early.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.