Is closer linkage between systemic lupus erythematosus and anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies a desirable and attainable goal?
1 Department of Rheumatology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Tromsø, Norway
2 Department of Rheumatology, University Hospital North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
3 Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Medical Biology, University of Tromsø, Norway
Arthritis Research & Therapy 2005, 7:85-87 doi:10.1186/ar1707
Published: 10 February 2005Abstract
The anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) antibody test incorporated in the 1982 revised American College of Rheumatology criteria for the classification of systemic lupus erythematosus needs updating to reflect current insights and technical achievements, including allowance for the presence of nonpathogenic anti-dsDNA antibodies. As we need to develop at least some measure of pathogenicity of anti-dsDNA antibodies, we propose that initial anti-dsDNA antibody screening is done by sensitive ELISA and supplemented by more stringent assays. Simultaneously the relevance of anti-dsDNA antibody presence needs to be restricted to clinical manifestations, thought to be caused by anti-dsDNA antibody and within an appropriate time frame.
