Anti-Ro (SSA) antibody test
Quick answer: This blood test looks for antibodies against the Ro (SSA) protein. Doctors usually order it when Sjogren's syndrome or lupus is suspected, and sometimes before or during pregnancy in women with autoimmune disease.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careIn pregnancy these antibodies can rarely affect the baby's heart rhythm, so doctors may plan extra monitoring if you test positive.
How the test is done
- 1You rest your arm on the chair support
- 2The nurse cleans a vein near your elbow
- 3A needle draws a tube of blood
- 4The lab checks for Ro (SSA) antibodies, sometimes reporting Ro52 and Ro60 separately
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, lupus and some other autoimmune conditions. In pregnancy it can rarely be linked to neonatal lupus or heart block in the baby.
Who usually has this test
People with dry eyes and mouth, a sun-sensitive rash or lupus features, and women with autoimmune disease who are planning pregnancy.
Risks and aftercare
A small bruise is possible; otherwise you can carry on as normal.
Names and options
Also called: SSA, anti-Ro, Ro/SSA, Ro antibody
Listed by the hospital as
- RO ANTIBODY SSA, SERUM BY EIA
- SSA - RO ANTIBODY, SERUM
Questions about this test
Why is anti-Ro checked before pregnancy?
Anti-Ro antibodies can cross the placenta and, in a small number of babies, affect the heart's electrical system. Knowing your result lets your doctor plan heart rate checks for the baby during pregnancy.
Can anti-Ro be positive with a negative ANA?
Yes, this can happen with some ANA methods. If Sjogren's or neonatal lupus is a concern, your doctor may test anti-Ro directly even when the ANA is negative.
What is the difference between Ro52 and Ro60?
They are two different proteins grouped under the Ro name. Ro60 is more closely linked with Sjogren's and lupus, while Ro52 alone is less specific and can appear in several conditions.
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 →
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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.