Double-Stranded DNA (dsDNA) Antibody, IgG by IFA (using Crithidia luciliae)

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR48730Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 2002693CPT Code 86256

Double-Stranded DNA (dsDNA) Antibody, IgG by IFA (using Crithidia luciliae)

Also known as: DNA IFA

Clinical Use

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Use

Positivity for anti-double stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) IgG antibody is a diagnostic criterion of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The presence of the anti-dsDNA IgG antibody is identified by IFA titer (Crithidia luciliae indirect fluorescent test [CLIFT]). CLIFT is highly specific for SLE with a sensitivity of 50-60 percent. Some patients with early or inactive SLE may be positive for anti-dsDNA IgG by ELISA but negative by CLIFT. If the CLIFT result is negative but the patient has a positive ELISA and clinical suspicion remains, consider antinuclear antibody (ANA) testing by IFA.

Special Instructions

Double Stranded DNA (dsDNA) antibodies (1:10 or greater) are found in 50-60 percent of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), 20-30 percent in Sjögren syndrome, 20-25 percent in mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD), and less than 5 percent in progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS). High titers of antibody to native (double stranded) DNA are specific for SLE.

Limitations

After separation from cells, specimens should only be stored at refrigerated temperatures for up to 2 weeks or frozen for up to 1 month. Repeated freeze/thaw cycles should be avoided to ensure the integrity of the specimen for testing. Plasma, cerebral spinal fluid, and contaminated, hemolyzed, or severely lipemic specimens are unacceptable for testing.

Test Details

New York Approved