DNA (ds) Antibody

Overview:

Antibodies to double-stranded DNA target the body's own genetic material. They are strongly associated with systemic lupus erythematosus and are rarely found in other conditions, which makes them one of the more specific tests in autoimmune medicine. They are usually ordered after a positive antinuclear antibody screen, to help establish whether lupus is the explanation. In many people with lupus the level rises and falls with disease activity, particularly where the kidneys are involved, so the test is also used for monitoring. A negative result does not exclude lupus, as not everyone with the condition produces these antibodies.

Categories:

Autoimmune

Biomarkers:

1 biomarker