ANTI ds-DNA - IFA

Note

A positive test result for double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) antibodies is consistent with the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus. Clinical flares of disease in patients with LE may not be accompanied by changes in the levels of dsDNA antibodies. Positive results may occur in patients with diseases other than LE. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis can develop anti-dsDNA antibodies, however they are usually treatment related. Anti-TNF - biological therapies, such as adalimumab, infliximab and etanercept, can often induce the production of anti-dsDNA antibodies. They are usually low avidity and are only detectable transiently after treatment. The presence of these antibodies can induce a lupus-like syndrome in some cases. Infection with viral pathogens can induce anti-dsDNA antibodies transiently. Human immunodeficiency virus, parvovirus B19 and BK virus are known to induce these antibodies. There is little evidence supporting the association between anti-dsDNA antibodies and other diseases. Occasionally the monoclonal proteins produced by myeloma patients can be anti-dsDNA. Also, some patients with type 1 autoimmune hepatitis produce anti-dsDNA antibodies.