Table of Contents
What does positive ANA and dsDNA mean?
The anti-double stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) test is used to help diagnose lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE) in a person who has a positive result on a test for antinuclear antibody (ANA) and has clinical signs and symptoms that suggest lupus.
Can you have a positive anti-dsDNA and not have lupus?
While a positive ANA test is seen in about 95\% of lupus cases, it may be seen in many other conditions as well. The anti-dsDNA test is fairly specific for lupus; however, only 65-85\% of people with lupus may be positive; that is, a negative anti-dsDNA does not rule out lupus.
Is anti-dsDNA specific for lupus?
Selected antinuclear antibodies (ANAs), including anti-double-stranded deoxyribonucleic acid (dsDNA) and anti-Sm, are highly specific for the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
What diseases cause double stranded DNA?
Anti-dsDNA is sometimes present with diseases such as chronic hepatitis, primary biliary cirrhosis, and infectious mononucleosis. It may also be seen in those taking drugs such as procainamide and hydralazine.
What is ACR criteria for lupus?
The EULAR/ACR classification requires an antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer of at least 1:80 on HEp-2 cells or an equivalent positive test at least once; otherwise, the patient is considered not to have SLE.
What is a positive ANA and what does it mean?
A positive ANA test means that you have high levels of ANA in your blood. A positive ANA test is usually reported as both a ratio (called a titer) and a pattern, such as smooth or speckled. Certain diseases are more likely to have certain patterns.
Is positive ANA a definitive sign of lupus?
A positive ANA does not by itself diagnose lupus since about 10\% of normal people and many people with other autoimmune diseases, such as thyroid disease, also have positive tests, but usually less strongly positive. Once positive, an ANA mostly stays positive, so need not be repeated.
What are some causes of a positive ANA test?
An ANA panel helps determine the level of ANA in your blood. You may have an autoimmune disorder if the level is high. However, conditions such as infections, cancer, and other medical problems can also result in a positive ANA test. When is an antinuclear antibody panel needed?