Anti - deoxyribonuclease B (Anti - DNase B) antibodies - serum

Last updated: Saturday, 16, June, 2007

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Item Process
Specimen

5-10 mL blood in plain tube.

Method

Inhibition of streptococcal DNase B activity.

Reference Interval

Method dependent.

Application

Suspected recent infection with Streptococcus pyogenes.

Anti - DNase B antibodies are more sensitive than the ASOT for the diagnosis of post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis and serious streptococcal skin infections eg, necrotising fasciitis.

Interpretation

High titre indicates recent infection with Streptococcus pyogenes.

The titre peaks at 4-6 weeks, but high levels persist for longer than the ASOT. Often used in conjunction with the ASOT.

See also Anti-streptolysin O titre.

Reference

Martin DR. In: Stevens DL and Kaplan EL. Streptococcal Infections. Oxford University Press 2000.