Skip to content

DNA Antibody Screening (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for antibodies that may react with DNA in your blood, which can help identify certain autoimmune conditions or other immune system disorders.

Quick summary

["This screening helps doctors assess potential autoimmune or inflammatory responses linked to DNA-related antibodies."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
31348-6
Short code
dsDNA Ab Ser Ql
Synonyms
dsDNA Ab Ser Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, rash, or other signs of an autoimmune disease. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or other connective tissue disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll typically provide a blood sample drawn from your arm in a clinic or lab. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.

What the Test Results Mean

Positive results suggest the presence of antibodies that may target DNA, which can be linked to autoimmune conditions. However, false positives can occur, so further testing (like confirmation assays) may be needed. Results alone don’t diagnose a condition—they guide further evaluation.

Common Conditions Linked to Positive Results

Elevated DNA antibodies are often associated with autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but they can also appear in other inflammatory or infectious conditions. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to determine the next steps.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

DNA Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

What symptoms might trigger this test?
Symptoms like persistent fatigue, joint or muscle pain, unexplained fevers, or a rash (such as a butterfly-shaped facial rash) may prompt this screening, especially if you have a family history of autoimmune diseases.
Can this test be done at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. Home tests for DNA antibodies are not standard or reliable.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up may include additional tests or consultations with your doctor.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy