Immunologic tests in rheumatology.
OBJECTIVE
Reading this article will familiarize the reader with the application and interpretation of different autoantibody tests used in rheumatology.


METHODS
Recent rheumatologic textbooks, relevant review articles, and seminal articles in English regarding specific tests.


RESULTS
An understanding of this review should enable the reader to approach diagnostic testing systematically in a patient with a suspected connective tissue disease.


CONCLUSIONS
The proper use and interpretation of appropriate immunologic tests are important in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with connective tissue diseases.
Moder
K G
KG
Division of Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic and Mayo Foundation, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
D001323:Autoantibodies; D006801:Humans; D007159:Immunologic Tests; D012216:Rheumatic Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*
D001323:Autoantibodies