Anti-Double-Stranded DNA

Autoantibodies to DNA recognize either single stranded (ss), or double stranded (ds) forms of DNA. Anti-dsDNA antibodies, however, are highly specific for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and are present in affected subjects with a prevalence varying from 40% to 80%. The presence of anti-dsDNA antibodies is one of the 11 classification criteria for SLE, as defined by the American College of Rheumatology. These antibodies are negative in drug induced lupus, and they are also not associated with subacute cutaneous lupus or discoid lupus.