ss DNA test results

[oshgos]

hi,
I just had blood work done and my ssDNA AB, ELISA was 266 in a range which should be >69 u/mL (single strand), my ana screen was positive with a solid pattern and titer of 160 (should be <80), can anyone explain what the 266 number means?

[Clare.T]

As far as I can see, anti ss- DNA ABs play no significant role in the diagnosis of SLE, unlike anti ds DNA ABs which are regarded as specific for lupus assuming there are are other symptoms. It's quite unusual to even hear of people being tested for them. Apparently they are quite often raised in people with lupus but they might also be raised in rheumatoid arthritis, some drug induced lupus and also if I remember rightly, liver disease.

I haven't heard of solid pattern ANA before but it seems to refer to a homogenous pattern which has no special significance. The patterns can change.

The titre is high enough to be significant if there are other clear signs of lupus but that titre could be found in many other diseases associated with raised ANA levels, like autoimmune thyroid disease.

The true meaning , or significance of any test result has to be determined by your doctor along with all the other symptoms

Are you seeing a rheumatologist ?
It's best not to see test results before seeing the doctor, in my opinion.
It often leads to unnecessary worry and a false conclusions, adding to what's already a stressful time, unless you are a very well informed and experienced patient.

Bye for now

Clare