Anti-ds DNA Antibody, ELISA Test
About Anti-ds DNA Antibody, ELISA Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Anti-dsDNA, Anti-double stranded DNA antibody, Antibody to ds-DNA, Native double-stranded DNA Antibody, ds-DNA Antibody, dsDNA by EIA, Anti-DNA |
| Sample Type | Venous blood (serum) |
| Fasting Required | No; no special preparation required |
| Report Time | 2 to 3 working days |
| Recommended For | All genders and age groups; primarily those with suspected autoimmune disorders |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,200 |
What Is an Anti-ds DNA Antibody, ELISA Test?
The anti-ds DNA antibody, ELISA test detects specific autoantibodies in the blood that mistakenly target the body's own genetic material. Autoantibodies are proteins that the immune system produces against its own tissues rather than against external threats.
This anti-double stranded DNA antibody test is primarily used to support the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune condition. A blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm is used for the analysis.
What Does an Anti-ds DNA Antibody, ELISA Test Measure?
The anti-dsDNA test looks for one specific type of autoantibody in your blood that mistakenly attacks your body's healthy DNA. While very low levels can sometimes show up in other mild conditions, high levels are a strong sign of active lupus.
Why Is an Anti-ds DNA Antibody, ELISA Test Done?
Doctors order this dsDNA blood test when a patient presents with signs that may point to an autoimmune condition, or to track disease activity in someone already diagnosed with lupus.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
- Persistent fatigue without a clear cause
- Joint pain or swelling
- A butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and bridge of the nose
- Skin rashes that worsen after sun exposure
- Unexplained fever
- Mouth ulcers
- Unusual hair loss
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic inflammatory autoimmune condition
- Lupus nephritis, a complication of lupus that affects the kidneys
- Other autoimmune disorders such as Sjögren's syndrome and mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD), where moderate antibody levels may be seen
- Chronic hepatitis, primary biliary cirrhosis, and infectious mononucleosis, where the antibody can sometimes be present
Anti-ds DNA Antibody, ELISA Test for Chronic Disease Monitoring
In people already diagnosed with lupus, the anti-dsDNA test is used periodically to track disease activity. Antibody levels often rise before or during a flare-up, making this a useful tool for monitoring SLE and lupus nephritis over time. The test is repeated based on clinical symptoms rather than on a fixed schedule.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed before your anti-ds DNA antibody, ELISA test, but a few simple steps can help ensure the sample is collected smoothly.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required. You can eat and drink as normal before this test. If your doctor has ordered additional tests alongside this one, check whether any of those require fasting.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
- Inform your doctor or the collection technician about all medications and supplements you are taking
- Stop taking biotin (vitamin B7) supplements for at least 24 to 48 hours prior to collection, as high-dose beauty supplements can cause false results on streptavidin-biotin ELISA platforms
- Stay well hydrated on the day of the test
- Wear a top with loose or short sleeves for easy access to the vein
Step-by-Step Procedure
- You will be seated comfortably and asked to rest your arm on a flat surface
- The technician will clean a small area on your arm with an antiseptic wipe
- A fine needle is inserted into a vein, usually in the crook of the elbow, to draw a small amount of blood into a collection vial
- The process takes less than five minutes and causes minimal discomfort
- Once the sample is collected, light pressure is applied to the area and a small bandage is placed
- The labelled vial is dispatched to the laboratory for analysis
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
- Certain medications, particularly procainamide and hydralazine, can trigger anti-DNA antibody production
- The presence of other autoimmune conditions
- Timing of the sample relative to a lupus flare
- High biotin intake in the days before the test
- Dehydration at the time of collection
- The specific assay method used by the laboratory
Understanding Your Anti-ds DNA Antibody, ELISA Test Results
Results from this test should always be reviewed alongside your symptoms and full medical history.
Note: Anti-dsDNA testing lacks universal standardisation across manufacturers. Numerical ranges depend entirely on the specific laboratory assay used. Always compare your individual metrics against the reference values printed on your official laboratory report.
| Result Category | Range | What It May Suggest |
|---|---|---|
| Negative | 4 IU/mL or below | Low likelihood of active lupus |
| Indeterminate | 5 to 9 IU/mL | Borderline; further testing likely needed |
| Positive | 10 IU/mL or above | Associated with lupus; clinical review required |
These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
Certain circumstances can affect how results are interpreted. Two examples are worth noting. Some medications, including procainamide and hydralazine, can induce anti-DNA antibodies even in people without lupus. Additionally, while anti-dsDNA antibodies are typically absent in classic drug-induced lupus, they may appear in lupus triggered by anti-TNF medications.
How to Reduce the Risk of Lupus Flares
If you have been diagnosed with lupus, these general wellness habits may help manage your condition:
- Apply a high-factor sunscreen (at least factor 50) and wear a hat when outdoors, as sun exposure is a known trigger for flares.
- Attend regular follow-up appointments with your rheumatologist to monitor your condition.
- Try to reduce exposure to known triggers such as excessive stress and infections.
Lupin Diagnostics Anti-ds DNA Antibody, ELISA Test Price and Home Collection
The anti-dsDNA test price starts at approximately ₹1,200, and home collection is available across cities in India. The table below shows approximate city-wise prices.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| Mumbai | ₹1,200 |
| Bangalore | ₹1,200 |
| Pune | ₹1,200 |
| Hyderabad | ₹1,200 |
| Chennai | ₹1,200 |
| Kolkata | ₹1,200 |
| Indore | ₹1,200 |
| Bhopal | ₹1,200 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
If you are searching for an 'anti-dsDNA test near me', follow these simple steps to book through Lupin Diagnostics:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website
- Choose your city and preferred time slot
- Opt for home sample collection by a certified phlebotomist, or visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time
Home Collection
Lupin Diagnostics offers home sample collection for the anti-ds DNA antibody ELISA test across cities in India. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories by trained professionals. Your digital report is delivered securely via email or WhatsApp once ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
The anti-dsDNA test is primarily used to help diagnose systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic autoimmune condition. It is also used to monitor disease activity and detect flare-ups in people already living with lupus.
No fasting is needed. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment. The only specific preparation required is stopping biotin supplements at least 72 hours before sample collection.
A negative result does not exclude lupus. Only 65% to 85% of people with lupus test positive for anti-dsDNA antibodies. Your doctor will consider this result alongside other tests and your clinical symptoms before making any assessment.
The antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is often done first to screen for autoimmune activity. If the ANA result is positive, the anti-dsDNA EIA test may be ordered next to help distinguish lupus from other autoimmune conditions that share similar symptoms.
Results for the dsDNA by EIA test are typically available within 2 to 3 working days from the time the sample reaches the laboratory.
Yes, certain medications such as procainamide and hydralazine are known to induce anti-DNA antibodies, which could affect your result. Always tell your doctor about every medication and supplement you are currently taking before the test.
A positive result means anti-dsDNA antibodies were detected in your blood. When combined with relevant symptoms and other test findings, a positive anti-double stranded DNA antibody test result may indicate SLE. Your doctor will review the result in full context before any conclusions are drawn.
Anti-ds DNA Antibody, ELISA Test
