Anti-DNA Antibody Test
Test Description
The anti-DNA antibody test detects the presence of antibodies to native, or doublestranded
DNA. Presence of these antibodies indicates the person has some type of
autoimmune disease. The resultant antibody-antigen complexes which form play a
major part in the tissue injury involved in autoimmune diseases. These antibodies
are particularly prevalent in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); thus,
this test is useful in the diagnosis of SLE and for monitoring the course of SLE.
Normal Values
∎Immunofluorescence method: Negative at 1:10 dilution
ELISA method: Negative<50 IU/mL
Borderline 50–60 IU/mL
Positive >60 IU/mL
∎Enzyme immunoassay method: Negative<100 IU/mL A
Borderline 100–300 IU/mL
Positive >300 IU/mL
Possible Meanings of Abnormal Values
Increased
Lupus nephritis
Myasthenia gravis
Rheumatoid arthritis
Sclerosis
Sjögren’s syndrome
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Contributing Factors to Abnormal Values
• Hemolysis of the blood sample may alter test results.
• Drugs that may increase anti-DNA levels: hydralazine, procainamide.
Interventions/Implications
Pretest
• Explain to the patient the purpose of the test and the need for a blood sample to be drawn.
• Overnight fasting is preferred before the test.
Procedure
• A 7-mL blood sample is drawn in a red-top collection tube.
• Gloves are worn throughout the procedure.
Post test
• Apply pressure at venipuncture site. Apply dressing, periodically assessing for continued
bleeding.
• Label the specimen and transport it to the laboratory.
• Report abnormal findings to the primary care provider
Clinical alert
• Risk of infection at venipuncture site due to immunocompromised state. Teach
patient to notify health-care provider if drainage, redness, warmth, edema, or
pain at the site or fever occur.
.
تعليقات
إرسال تعليق