DNA (Double Strand) Antibody By IFA
Understanding DNA (Double Strand) Antibody By IFA
What is DNA (Double Strand) Antibody By IFA?
Anti-Ds-DNA antibody by IFA measures the levels of antibodies against double-stranded DNA in your blood. Doctors use this test to diagnose lupus (SLE or systemic lupus erythematosus). Your doctor may recommend this test in association with ANA (antinuclear antibody) if you have lupus symptoms, including muscle pain, weakness, weight loss, numbness of hands or feet, joint pain, rashes, or fever, etc. This test is advised to monitor disease activity and evaluate treatment effectiveness in patients with lupus, to assess the risk of lupus development in people with a family history of the disease, and to differentiate between lupus and other autoimmune or non-autoimmune conditions.
A high level of anti-ds DNA indicates lupus nephritis. A moderate level of anti-ds DNA may indicate other autoimmune diseases, such as MCTD (mixed connective tissue disease) or Sjogren syndrome. A low level of anti-ds DNA may mean that your report is negative but still not rule out lupus.
What is DNA (Double Strand) Antibody By IFA used for?
- If you have signs or symptoms that suggest systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with a positive ANA test. Various signs and symptoms of lupus are: low grade fever, bone or joint pains, muscle pains, skin rashes, sensitivity to light, hair and weight loss
- It may also be ordered to monitor the progress of the disease or flare ups in a person who has been diagnosed with lupus
Interpreting DNA (Double Strand) Antibody By IFA results
Interpretations
- A high level of anti ds DNA antibody is strongly associated with lupus and is significantly increased during or just prior to a flare up. Therefore, when the ds DNA antibody test is positive and the person tested has other signs and symptoms associated with lupus, it means that the person likely has lupus
- Low to moderate levels of antibody may be seen with other autoimmune diseases like Sjogren syndrome
- A very low level of anti ds DNA is considered negative but does not exclude a diagnosis of lupus. Only 50-70% patients of lupus will have anti ds DNA
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