Anti - dsDNA | Double-stranded DNA antibody test

Antibodies against native (double-helical) DNA are found in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. However, the detection of anti-DNA alone cannot be an absolute diagnostic criterion for lupus. These antibodies (anti-DNA) are found in 80-90% of people with lupus. In its sensitivity, this test is close to the morphological detection of LE cells. Previously, it was considered unnecessary to do this test if the ANA test (antinuclear antibodies) is negative. However, it has been observed that some patients with lupus may have an increase in the anti-DNA index without a change in the ANA index. Therefore, anti-DNA is always recommended when lupus is suspected.