Question

Anti-Scl-70 antibody is most strongly associated with which condition?

• A. GAVE
• B. Calcinosis cutis
• C. Interstitial lung disease
• D. Myositis

Hint:

Anti-Scl-70 = diffuse systemic sclerosis with high risk of interstitial lung disease.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question tests the clinical associations of autoantibodies found in Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Anti-Scl-70 (Anti-topoisomerase I): This antibody is a hallmark of Diffuse Cutaneous Systemic Sclerosis.

Pulmonary Association: Patients with the Anti-Scl-70 antibody have a significantly higher risk and more rapid progression of Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), specifically Non-Specific Interstitial Pneumonia (NSIP).

Limited vs. Diffuse: In contrast, Anti-centromere antibodies are associated with Limited Cutaneous Systemic Sclerosis (CREST syndrome). CREST is more strongly associated with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) rather than ILD.

GAVE: Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia ("watermelon stomach") can occur in scleroderma but is not specific to Scl-70.

Calcinosis Cutis: Part of CREST syndrome (Anti-centromere).

Step 3: Final Answer:
The Anti-Scl-70 antibody is the primary serological marker linked to the development of Interstitial Lung Disease in scleroderma patients.