What condition involves the presence of antinuclear antibodies as a notable feature?

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is characterized by the presence of antinuclear antibodies (ANAs), which play a significant role in its diagnosis. ANAs are a group of autoantibodies that target components within the nucleus of cells. Their presence is highly indicative of autoimmune activity, particularly in SLE, where a wide array of ANAs can be detected, including anti-double-stranded DNA and anti-Smith antibodies.

In SLE, these antibodies contribute to the pathophysiology of the disease by forming immune complexes that can deposit in tissues, leading to inflammation and damage in various organs, including the skin, kidneys, joints, and the cardiovascular system. The detection of ANAs is an essential part of the diagnostic criteria for SLE, as they are found in approximately 95% of patients with this condition.

While other autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis do involve autoantibodies, they typically feature different specificities like anti-CCP or rheumatoid factor rather than a widespread and varied presence of ANAs. Similarly, pemphigus vulgaris has its own specific autoantibodies directed against desmogleins, and Goodpasture's syndrome is associated with antibodies against the glomerular