ANTI - ds DNA, IFA in Dilutions
ANTI - ds DNA, IFA in Dilutions
The Anti - ds DNA, IFA in dilutions test is used to detect the titres (levels) of antinuclear antibodies in your blood by using an indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA). Antinuclear antibodies are proteins that specifically target components of the body's normal tissues and organs. The anti-ds DNA test aids in the detection and diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorder. An elevation in anti-dsDNA antibodies within the bloodstream serves as an indication of a lupus flare-up, which involves a sudden escalation in disease symptoms.
Therefore, getting this test done is recommended to prevent various lupus-erythematosus-mediated complications such as constriction of blood vessels, pneumonia, etc
Symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus
Fatigue
Weight loss
Muscle or joint aches
Rashes
Recurrent sores
Hearing loss
Vision loss
Blood in urine
Abdominal pain
Cough
Numbness in different parts of the body
Chest pain
Skin rash (a butterfly rash)
Hair loss
Swollen lymph nodes
Who should get tested?
Anti - ds DNA, IFA in dilutions test is recommended in the following conditions:
To determine whether autoimmune symptoms caused are related to systemic lupus erythematosus or not
To detect the level of Anti-ds DNA antibodies in blood
To monitor treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus
Test preparation
No preparation is required for the Anti-ds DNA, IFA in dilutions test
Interpretation of the Test Results
Reference interval for Anti - ds DNA titer is less than 1:10
The result may come as positive or negative.
Positive result
If your test results were positive (high titer), it indicates the presence of the Anti-ds DNA antibodies in your blood. A positive test indicates that the individual is more likely to have systemic lupus erythematosus.
Negative result
If your test results were negative, it indicates the absence of the Anti-ds DNA antibodies in your blood. It means that you are less likely to have systemic lupus erythematosus.
FAQs
How is the sample collected for an Anti - ds DNA, IFA in dilutions test?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a small needle. Usually, this procedure does not take more than 5 minutes
Are there any risks associated with an Anti - ds DNA, IFA in dilutions test?
No, there are no associated risks with Anti - ds DNA, IFA in dilutions test. It is a simple blood test that carries minimal risks, such as experiencing a slight sting or bruise at the needle insertion site. Typically, these discomforts subside within a short period of time, ranging from a few minutes to a couple of hours. In rare cases, there is a possibility of infection at the needle insertion site.
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for Anti - ds DNA, IFA in dilutions test result?
Anti - ds DNA, IFA in dilutions test results are usually available within 1-3 working days after the sample collection. This duration may vary depending upon the diagnostic clinic
Which antibody is found frequently in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients?
Anti-double-stranded deoxyribonucleic acid (dsDNA) antibodies exhibit a specificity of more than 95% for SLE, although these antibodies are detected in only around 60% to 70% of SLE patients
What is an immunofluorescence assay?
Immunofluorescence assay is a technique used to detect and visualize specific molecules or antigens within cells or tissues. It involves the use of fluorescently labelled antibodies that bind to the target molecules, allowing for their detection under a fluorescence microscope