CREST syndrome is most closely associated with which antibody?

CREST syndrome, a subset of systemic scleroderma, is most closely associated with anticentromere antibodies. This condition is characterized by the presence of calcinosis, Raynaud's phenomenon, esophageal dysmotility, sclerodactyly, and telangiectasia. The anticentromere antibody is specifically linked to the limited form of scleroderma, which is the type most commonly associated with CREST syndrome.

The presence of anticentromere antibodies in patients helps in the diagnosis and indicates a prognosis that often includes a milder disease course compared to other forms of scleroderma. In contrast, other antibodies, such as anti-Smith, anti-Ro, and anti-La, are more commonly associated with systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjögren's syndrome, respectively, and are not linked to the specific manifestations of CREST syndrome. Thus, the correct association for CREST syndrome is with anticentromere antibodies, reflecting the unique pathophysiological aspects of this condition.