What is the Salivary Duct Antibodies test?

The Salivary Duct Antibodies blood test detects autoantibodies that target cells within the salivary gland ducts. These antibodies are associated with autoimmune conditions that cause inflammation and dysfunction of the salivary glands.

They are most commonly evaluated in the investigation of Sjögren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disease characterised by dry mouth, dry eyes, and systemic symptoms. Salivary duct antibodies may support diagnosis when combined with other autoimmune markers and clinical findings.

This test contributes to understanding immune-mediated damage to exocrine glands.

Why do I need a test for Salivary Duct Antibodies?

Autoimmune salivary gland disease often presents gradually and may be overlooked in early stages. Antibody testing helps identify immune involvement when symptoms suggest glandular dysfunction.

It is particularly useful when dryness symptoms persist or when Sjögren’s syndrome is suspected but not yet confirmed.

You may benefit from this test if you experience:

• Persistent dry mouth (xerostomia)

• Difficulty swallowing dry foods

• Increased dental decay

• Dry or gritty eyes

• Swollen salivary glands

• Chronic fatigue

• Joint pain with dryness symptoms

• Suspected Sjögren’s syndrome

Benefits of the Salivary Duct Antibodies test

1. Supports Sjögren’s syndrome investigation
   Helps identify autoimmune salivary gland involvement.

2. Assesses immune-mediated gland damage
   Indicates antibody-driven inflammation.

3. Useful in unexplained dryness symptoms
   Supports diagnosis when symptoms persist.

4. Complements other autoimmune markers
   Often used alongside ANA, SSA, and SSB antibodies.

5. Supports early autoimmune detection
   Earlier identification may improve symptom management.

6. Relevant for systemic autoimmune disease
   Sjögren’s can affect multiple organs.

7. Non-invasive autoimmune assessment
   Requires only a blood sample.

8. Guides specialist referral
   Supports rheumatology or immunology evaluation.

Step-by-step – how we offer Salivary Duct Antibodies testing

Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic

• Attend your appointment

• Blood sample collected by a qualified clinician or phlebotomist

• Sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis

At-home or hotel testing (+£60)

• A qualified phlebotomist visits your home or hotel

• Blood sample collected in a comfortable, familiar setting

• No clinic visit or travel required

Both services are available UK-wide.

Your Salivary Duct Antibodies results explained

Negative antibodies

Negative results suggest no detectable salivary duct autoantibodies. This reduces the likelihood of autoimmune salivary gland disease but does not fully exclude Sjögren’s syndrome.

Clinical symptoms and additional tests remain important.

UK reference interpretation:

• Negative: Not detected

Low-positive antibodies

Low-level antibody positivity may be seen in early or mild autoimmune activity. Results should be interpreted alongside symptoms and other autoimmune markers.

Monitoring or further testing may be advised.

UK reference interpretation:

• Low positive: Above reference threshold

High antibody levels

High antibody levels indicate significant autoimmune activity targeting salivary gland ducts. This supports a diagnosis of autoimmune salivary gland disease, particularly when symptoms are present.

Specialist assessment is often recommended.

UK reference interpretation:

• High positive: Significantly elevated