Anti-centromere antibodies are most characteristic of which form of systemic sclerosis?

• A. Limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (CREST)
• B. Diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis
• C. Systemic lupus erythematosus
• D. Rheumatoid arthritis

Answer: (A)

Anti-centromere antibodies are most closely associated with the limited cutaneous form of systemic sclerosis, the CREST subset. In this form, skin involvement is confined to the face and hands (often extending to forearms) and patients commonly have features of CREST: Calcinosis, Raynaud phenomenon, Esophageal dysmotility, Sclerodactyly, and Telangiectasias. The restricted distribution of skin and this serologic profile together define the limited form.

In contrast, the diffuse form of systemic sclerosis is more often linked to anti-Scl-70 (topoisomerase I) antibodies and widespread skin involvement with greater risk of internal organ fibrosis. SLE and RA have their own characteristic autoantibodies and clinical patterns, not centered on anti-centromere antibodies.

So, the presence of anti-centromere antibodies best points to the limited cutaneous (CREST) form.