Home Biomarkers Anti DNA Abs.

Anti DNA Abs.

Autoimmune disorder Biomarker

Sample Needed

Collection Type: Blood

Body System

Related System: Autoimmune disorder

Overview

Anti-DNA antibodies are autoantibodies directed primarily against double‑stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) produced when the immune system targets the body’s own genetic material. The test measures the presence and amount (titer) of these antibodies in blood, helping to detect and monitor systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to assess disease activity—especially lupus nephritis. Testing is considered when patients have features such as unexplained rash (including malar rash), photosensitivity, arthritis, unexplained renal disease (proteinuria, hematuria), fever, fatigue or neuropsychiatric symptoms. Anti-dsDNA is more common and higher in women and in people with active SLE; low or absent titers do not completely exclude disease.

People also test for

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required

Why Do I Need This Test

Profile: Autoimmune disorder (SLE workup and monitoring).
Symptoms prompting test: rash, joint pain, unexplained kidney abnormalities, persistent fevers, oral ulcers, photosensitivity, neuro symptoms.
Diagnoses/monitoring: supports diagnosis of SLE and helps track disease activity, especially renal involvement.
Reasons for abnormal levels: active autoimmune disease (SLE), other autoimmune diseases, some infections, or assay variability.
Biological meaning: elevated titers reflect autoimmune activity against nuclear material and often correlate with flares.
Behaviors/lifestyle/family history: smoking, infections or family history of autoimmune disease increase pretest suspicion.

Run our symptom checker to see if this test is right for you

Symptom Checker

Understanding Test Results

Values <30 IU/mL: considered negative—makes active SLE less likely but does not exclude it.
30–50 IU/mL: low/indeterminate positivity—may reflect early disease, low activity, or nonspecific/reactive antibodies; correlate clinically and consider repeat testing.
50–100 IU/mL: moderate positivity—suggests possible SLE and increased likelihood of disease activity; evaluate for symptoms and organ involvement.
>100 IU/mL: high positivity—strongly associated with active SLE and a higher risk of lupus nephritis; warrants further evaluation (urinalysis, renal function) and close clinical follow‑up.
Note: False positives can occur with other autoimmune diseases or infections; titres may fluctuate with treatment and disease course, so interpretation requires clinical correlation and, when available, comparison to prior results and complementary tests (complement levels, ANA pattern).

Normal Range

0-30 IU/mL

FAQs

Q: What is an anti-DNA antibody test?

A: An anti-DNA antibody test is a blood test that detects antibodies against double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA). It helps diagnose and monitor systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); high or rising levels often indicate active disease and increased risk of kidney involvement. Results are interpreted with clinical findings and other tests (e.g., ANA). Not all positives mean SLE, and levels help guide treatment and follow-up.

Q: What is a normal anti-dsDNA AB level?

A: A “normal” anti‑dsDNA antibody result varies by assay and lab, but is generally considered negative below about 25–30 IU/mL. Low‑positive results (≈30–100 IU/mL) may be equivocal; high levels (>100 IU/mL) more strongly suggest active systemic lupus erythematosus. Interpret results using the laboratory’s reference range and your clinical context, and review abnormal findings with your clinician.

Q: Does everyone have anti-dsDNA antibodies?

A: No anti–double‑stranded DNA (anti‑dsDNA) antibodies are not present in everyone. They are autoantibodies most commonly seen in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and help with diagnosis and monitoring, particularly for lupus nephritis. Low or transient anti‑dsDNA levels can occasionally occur with other autoimmune diseases or infections, but they are uncommon in healthy individuals.

Q: How to reduce anti-dsDNA?

A: Reduce anti-dsDNA by controlling lupus activity: adhere to prescribed immunomodulators (hydroxychloroquine, corticosteroids, azathioprine, mycophenolate, cyclophosphamide) or targeted biologics (rituximab, belimumab) as directed by your rheumatologist. Prevent flares with sun protection, smoking cessation, infection control, vaccinations, and stress management. Regular monitoring and prompt treatment adjustments lower antibody levels and complications—discuss individualized care with your specialist.

Q: What happens if an antibody test is positive?

A: A positive antibody test means your immune system has made antibodies to the virus from past infection or vaccination not that you currently have an active infection. It suggests some immune response but doesn’t guarantee complete or long-lasting immunity. False positives can occur. Continue precautions; if you have symptoms or recent exposure, get a diagnostic test and discuss next steps with a healthcare provider.

Q: What disease is associated with anti-dsDNA antibodies?

A: Anti double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) antibodies are most strongly associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). They are highly specific for SLE and often correlate with disease activity, especially lupus nephritis (kidney involvement). Rising anti-dsDNA titers can signal flares, while falling titers may indicate response to treatment. They are used clinically for diagnosis and monitoring and feature in SLE criteria.