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Test ID ADNA DNA Double-Stranded (dsDNA) Antibodies, IgG, Serum

Useful For

Evaluating patients with signs and symptoms consistent with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

 

Monitoring patients with documented SLE for flares in disease activity

Method Name

Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)

Reporting Name

DNA Double-Stranded Ab, IgG, S

Specimen Type

Serum

Container/Tube:

Preferred: Serum gel

Acceptable: Red top

Specimen Volume: 0.5 mL

Forms: If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a General Request Form (T239) with the specimen (http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/it-mmfiles/general-request-form.pdf).

Specimen Minimum Volume

0.35 mL

Specimen Stability Information

Specimen Type Temperature Time
Serum Refrigerated (preferred) 21 days
  Frozen  21 days

Clinical Information

Double-stranded (ds, native) DNA (dsDNA) antibodies of the IgG class are an accepted criterion (American College of Rheumatology) for the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).(1-3) dsDNA antibodies are detectable in approximately 85% of patients with untreated SLE, and are rarely detectable in other connective tissue diseases. Weakly-positive results caused by low-avidity antibodies to dsDNA are not specific for SLE and can occur in a variety of diseases.

 

Testing for IgG antibodies to dsDNA is indicated in patients who have a positive test for antinuclear antibodies (ANA) along with signs and symptoms that are compatible with the diagnosis of SLE. If the ANA test is negative, there is no reason to test for antibodies to dsDNA.(2)

 

The levels of IgG antibodies to dsDNA in serum are known to fluctuate with disease activity in lupus erythematosus, often increasing prior to an increase in inflammation and decreasing in response to therapy.(1,2)

Reference Values

<30.0 IU/mL (negative)

30.0-75.0 IU/mL (borderline)

>75.0 IU/mL (positive)

Negative is considered normal.

Reference values apply to all ages.

Cautions

Measurements of IgG antibodies to dsDNA are semiquantitative. Slight changes in the levels of these antibodies should not be relied upon to predict changes in the clinical course of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Clinical flares of disease in patients with SLE may not be accompanied by changes in the levels of dsDNA antibodies.

 

A positive result may occur in patients with diseases other than SLE. A negative result does not exclude a diagnosis of SLE.

Day(s) Performed

Monday through Saturday; 4 p.m.

Report Available

1 day

Performing Laboratory

Mayo Medical Laboratories in Rochester

Test Classification

This test has been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is used per manufacturer's instructions. Performance characteristics were verified by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.

CPT Code Information

86225

NY State Approved

Yes