Tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) substrate absorbance measurement for anti-dsDNA antibody titer (serum/plasma)
This test measures the level of antibodies directed against double-stranded DNA in your blood. These antibodies can be a sign of certain autoimmune conditions.
["Assessing your immune response to DNA may help diagnose or monitor autoimmune diseases like lupus."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 51475-2
- Short code
- T palldm Ab Titr CSF
- Synonyms
- T palldm Ab Titr CSF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
This test is done to help your healthcare provider check how well your body is working, look for signs of illness or infection, and gather the information needed to make an accurate diagnosis and choose the right treatment plan for you.
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of autoimmune diseases, such as joint pain, fatigue, or unexplained rashes. It may also be used to monitor disease activity in people already diagnosed with conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Before the test, your provider will explain the procedure and answer any questions you have. You may be asked to avoid food, drinks, or certain medicines for a period of time beforehand, so follow all instructions carefully and tell your provider about any medications, allergies, or health conditions you have.
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Wear a comfortable shirt that allows easy access to your arm for vein access.
During the test, a trained healthcare professional will perform the procedure in a clinic, hospital, or laboratory setting. The process is usually quick, and every effort will be made to keep you comfortable. Let the staff know right away if you feel pain, dizziness, or any unusual discomfort at any point.
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. You may feel a small prick, but most people do not feel much pain. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to detect and measure the antibodies.
Your results will show whether your values fall within the normal range for this test. Normal results usually mean no signs of a problem, while abnormal results may point to a condition that needs further evaluation. Your provider will review the results with you, explain what they mean, and discuss any next steps for your care.
Results are reported as a titer value, which indicates the strength of your antibody response. Higher values may suggest an active autoimmune reaction, but interpretation depends on clinical context and other test results. Your doctor will discuss these findings with you.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Anti-dsDNA Antibody Titer
Frequently asked questions
Anti-dsDNA antibodies are strongly associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other autoimmune diseases. Elevated levels can help confirm a diagnosis or assess disease severity, but they are not definitive on their own. Other tests and symptoms are considered together.
A positive result (higher than expected levels) often raises suspicion for autoimmune conditions like lupus. However, it does not confirm a diagnosis alone. Your doctor will review your full medical picture, including symptoms and other test results, to guide further action.
While certain medications (like steroids) may influence antibody levels, lifestyle factors such as diet or stress typically do not directly affect this test. Always follow your doctor’s advice regarding medication timing or other preparations.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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