[Detection of anti-DNA antibodies for the diagnosis of disseminated lupus erythematosus. Comparative study of immunoenzyme methods and a Farr test]

Pathol Biol (Paris). 2001 Oct;49(8):612-9. doi: 10.1016/s0369-8114(01)00218-8.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Among the biological assays used for the diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus, the detection of anti-double strand DNA (dsDNA) antibodies is highly specific, especially at a high level. Different methods are using for the detection of this specificity, particularly enzyme-based immunoassay (EIA) kits that become widespread in autoimmunity because of several advantages like standardization, simple use and automation. We selected 80 sera in order to evaluate six commercial anti-dsDNA EIA kits and a Farr assay. The results were compared with clinical data, to appreciate both the sensitivity and the specificity of each method. EIA assays are highly sensitive, but are less specific than the Farr assay. These EIA methods should remain organized in an integrative biological step, following an evocative clinical examination. Moreover, the EIA results require confirmations with a more specific assay.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Antinuclear / blood*
  • Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
  • Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect
  • Humans
  • Immunoenzyme Techniques*
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / diagnosis*
  • Radioimmunoprecipitation Assay*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Substances

  • Antibodies, Antinuclear