Description
Array 5 – Multiple Autoimmune Reactivity Screen
The Array 5 is a broad surveillance test for autoantibodies against multiple organ-specific antigens.
What does this test measure?
It includes a panel of around 24 markers corresponding to various tissues, among which:
- Neurological: MBP (myelin basic protein) for MS, Cerebellar peptides, Gangliosides
- Joint/Collagen: Collagen II, possibly CCP (cyclic citrullinated peptide)
- Thyroid: TPO (thyroid peroxidase), TGB (thyroglobulin)
- Pancreas: GAD65 (glutamic acid decarboxylase)
- Adrenal: 21-hydroxylase
- Reproductive: Ovarian/testis antigens
- GI: Parietal cell or intrinsic factor, ASCA
- Liver: ASMA (smooth muscle), AMA (mitochondrial)
- Kidney: GBM (glomerular basement membrane)
- Skin: BP180 or BP230
The goal is to detect autoimmunity in its early, subclinical stage, as autoantibodies often appear years before the onset of the disease. When someone has multiple autoantibodies, it indicates a heightened autoimmune state (referred to as polyautoimmunity), suggesting they may soon develop an autoimmune disease or that one is already in progress.
Who is this test most suitable for?
- People on a preventive health plan aimed at managing autoimmunity
- Those experiencing chronic stress or infections that could trigger autoimmunity
- Individuals with positive ANA results but no diagnosed disease
- People with family history of autoimmune disease
Clinical Use
This approach is particularly useful for patients with a family history of autoimmune disease or those experiencing vague symptoms that could be autoimmune in nature but lack a definitive diagnosis. Early detection can prompt interventions such as dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, or potentially immunomodulation to help prevent the progression to full-blown disease. Additionally, practitioners may use this information to monitor whether an autoimmune process is affecting new tissues.
