Double Stranded DNA Antibody

Label Mnemonic:	DSDNA
Epic code:	LAB1299
Order form:	Immunopathology Requisition
Supply order:	Supply Order Form
Billing:	Billing Policies
CPT code:	86235

Specimen(s):

Plasma

Collection Medium:

Plasma Separator Tube 4.5 mL

Alternate Collection Media:

Call laboratory for additional acceptable specimen collection containers.

Minimum:

3.0 mL whole blood from light green top tube or TWO Microtainer^® devices

Testing Schedule:

24 hrs/day, 7 days a week, including holidays.

Turn Around Time:

3 hours (upon receipt in laboratory)

Reference Range:

Negative: 4 IU/mL or less
Indeterminate: 5-9 IU/mL
Positive: 10 IU/mL or greater

Interpretive Data:

Double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) IgG antibodies are part of the American College of Rheumatology criteria for the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). dsDNA are detectable in approximately 85% of patients with untreated SLE and are rarely detected in other connective tissue diseases. Weakly positive results are not specific to SLE and can occur in other diseases. Levels of dsDNA antibodies often fluctuate with disease activity in SLE and may decrease with response to therapy. Increases of 25% or more in dsDNA antibody level may indicate disease exacerbation.

Comments:

Test performed in the Chemistry lab.

Assay methodology and reference ranges changed February 25, 2013.

All first-time positive results are confirmed by Crithidia immunofluorescence assay (IFA).

Methodology:

Multiplex flow immunoassay

Sample Processing:

Centrifuge at a speed and time necessary to get barrier separation of plasma/serum and cells within 1 hour of collection. Send specimen in original tube. Do Not transfer to another tube.
Each sample must be labeled with at least TWO full patient identifiers (First/Last Name & DOB are sufficient for non-UIHC affiliated clients) to avoid sample rejection/delays.

Sample Storage:

Refrigerate.
All sample storage requirements are intended for delivery to UIHC within 24 hours of collection for testing. If samples won't arrive in this time period, please call the UIHC Core Lab for alternative storage/shipping instructions (319-356-3527).

Transport Instructions:

Place labeled specimen into zip-lock type biohazard bag; seal bag.
Place completed requisition into outside pocket of bag.
Transport in cooler with refrigerated coolant packs.

CPT Code:

86235

See also:
Anti-Nuclear Antibody Screen and Reflex Titer by IFA, Serum
Double Stranded DNA Antibody, Other, Body Fluid
RNP Antibody, Plasma
Smith Antibody, Plasma