Anti-DNAse B (Deoxyribonuclease B) Test
About Anti-DNAse B test
In response to an infection caused by group A Streptococcus (strep infection), the body's immune system produces various antibodies, including anti-DNAse B (anti-deoxyribonuclease-B antibody). The anti-DNAse B test is used to measure the amount of anti-DNase B antibody in the blood.
Group A Streptococcus is responsible for causing strep throat as well as a range of other infections such as skin infections like pyoderma, impetigo, and cellulitis.
Thus, getting the anti-DNAse B test is recommended to determine a recent strep infection and the presence of rheumatic fever or kidney issues (glomerulonephritis) resulting from that infection.
This test is also known as
ADNase-B, ADN-B, ADB
Complications of recent strep infection
A recent strep infection can give rise to complications like rheumatic fever and post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.
Fever
Muscle or joint aches
Rapid, jerky movement
Skin nodules
Skin rash
Chest pain
Common signs and symptoms of glomerulonephritis include
Fatigue
Blood in urine
Edema
High blood pressure
Producing less urine
Why is this test done?
Anti-DNAse B test is recommended in the following conditions
To detect the level of anti-DNase B antibodies in blood
To determine acute or recent streptococcal infection
To help diagnose complications resulting from a recent strep infection
Test Preparation
No special preparation is required for the anti-DNAse B test.
Interpretation of the results
The units of measurement for the results are Units Per Milliliter
|
Category |
Anti-DNAse B (Normal range)
|
|
Adults |
less than 85 units/milliliter (mL) |
|
School-age children |
less than 170 units/mL |
|
Preschool children |
less than 60 units/mL |
The test result may come as positive or negative and the normal ranges may vary among different laboratories.
Positive result
If the test results were positive, it indicates the presence of elevated or rising antibody titers of anti-DNAse B in the blood sample. It means that it is likely that the individual has had a recent strep infection.
Negative result
If the test results were negative, it indicates the absence of the anti-DNAse B antibodies in the blood sample. It means that the individual is unlikely to have had a recent strep infection.
FAQs
How is the sample collected for an anti -DNAse B test?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a small needle. The collected sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Are there any risks associated with the anti-DNAse B test?
This test involves negligible risk. There might be slight soreness or tenderness around the site where the blood is drawn. Rarely, the site can become infected.
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the anti-DNAse B test?
The anti-DNAse B test result is usually available within 1-4 working days after the sample collection. This duration may vary depending upon the diagnostic clinic.
Can an anti-DNase B test be used to diagnose strep throat?
No. The recommended tests to diagnose strep throat include a rapid strep test and/or throat culture. Timely identification and treatment of strep throat are essential in order to prevent complications and the transmission of the infection to others.
Is it possible for me to develop rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis while having strep throat?
After the initial strep infection has been resolved, complications such as rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis commonly arise. The signs and symptoms for glomerulonephritis occur after approximately 1-2 weeks, whereas rheumatic fever may take about 2-3 weeks to show any indications.
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