DNase-B Antibody

The DNase-B Antibody test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker.

Brief Description: The DNase-B Antibody test, commonly referred to as Anti-DNase B or simply DNase test, is a laboratory test that measures the level of DNase-B antibodies in the bloodstream. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to harmful entities like bacteria or viruses. DNase-B antibodies, in particular, are generated in response to a protein produced by the group A Streptococcus bacteria.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When and Why a DNase-B Antibody Test May Be Ordered

A DNase-B Antibody test is often ordered when a patient presents with symptoms suggestive of a post-streptococcal complication or when a patient has had a recent streptococcal infection but has tested negative in rapid strep tests or throat cultures. The reasons to order this test include:

• Suspected Post-Streptococcal Conditions: Certain conditions can develop after an infection with group A Streptococcus. These conditions, such as rheumatic fever or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, can have serious implications for a patient's health.

• Previous Infections: In cases where an individual might have had a streptococcal infection that was either untreated or inadequately treated.

• Negative Rapid Tests: When a patient has symptoms of a streptococcal infection but other rapid tests or cultures are negative.

What the DNase-B Antibody Test Checks For

The DNase-B Antibody test checks for the presence and levels of DNase-B antibodies in the blood. A significant increase in these antibodies indicates a recent infection with group A Streptococcus.

Other Lab Tests Ordered Alongside DNase-B Antibody Test

When a DNase-B Antibody test is ordered, it's often part of a broader evaluation of streptococcal infections and their complications. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside it:

1. Antistreptolysin O (ASO) Titer:

   • Purpose: To detect antibodies against the streptolysin O enzyme produced by Group A Streptococcus.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Like the DNase-B test, the ASO titer is used to diagnose recent streptococcal infections, particularly when investigating conditions like rheumatic fever or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.

2. Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential:

   • Purpose: To evaluate overall blood health.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To identify signs of infection or inflammation, which may accompany a streptococcal infection.

3. Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) and C-Reactive Protein (CRP):

   • Purpose: To measure markers of inflammation in the body.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To assess the degree of systemic inflammation, which can be elevated in conditions like rheumatic fever.

4. Kidney Function Test:

   • Purpose: To assess kidney function.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To evaluate the kidneys, particularly in the context of post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, a possible complication of strep infections.

5. Urinalysis:

   • Purpose: To analyze various components of urine.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To check for protein, blood, or other abnormalities that might indicate kidney involvement following a strep infection.

These tests, when ordered alongside a DNase-B Antibody test, provide a comprehensive evaluation of past or recent Group A Streptococcus infection and its potential complications. They are crucial for diagnosing streptococcal infections, assessing the risk of associated conditions like rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis, and guiding treatment decisions. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual’s symptoms, clinical presentation, and medical history.

Conditions or Diseases that Require a DNase-B Antibody Test

The DNase-B Antibody test is particularly useful for diagnosing:

• Rheumatic Fever: A serious condition that can affect the heart, skin, joints, and brain.

• Post-Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis: A kidney disorder that can arise after a streptococcal infection.

Usage of Results from DNase-B Antibody Test by Health Care Providers

Healthcare providers use the results of the DNase-B Antibody test to:

• Confirm a Recent Infection: Elevated levels of DNase-B antibodies can confirm a recent group A Streptococcus infection, even if the bacteria are no longer present.

• Diagnose Post-Streptococcal Complications: The test helps in the diagnosis of conditions like rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis, especially when combined with clinical findings and other lab tests.

• Guide Treatment: Knowing that a condition is post-streptococcal in nature can guide therapeutic decisions, such as the initiation or continuation of antibiotics.

In conclusion, the DNase-B Antibody test is a vital diagnostic tool that helps healthcare providers confirm recent streptococcal infections and diagnose conditions that arise as complications of these infections.

Most Common Questions About the DNase-B Antibody test:

Purpose and Clinical Indications for the DNase-B Antibody Test

What is the main objective of the DNase-B Antibody test?

The DNase-B Antibody test is utilized to detect the presence of antibodies against deoxyribonuclease B (DNase-B) in the blood. These antibodies are typically elevated in individuals with post-streptococcal complications such as rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis following an infection with group A Streptococcus bacteria.

When is the DNase-B Antibody test typically ordered by physicians?

Physicians usually order the DNase-B Antibody test when they suspect that a patient may have developed a complication following a streptococcal infection. This is especially the case when symptoms like joint pain, swelling, and heart-related issues (common in rheumatic fever) or kidney problems (seen in glomerulonephritis) are present.

Interpretation of Results

How are the results of the DNase-B Antibody test generally interpreted?

The interpretation of the DNase-B Antibody test results is based on the titers or concentration of DNase-B antibodies in the blood. Elevated levels suggest a recent or current streptococcal infection and may indicate complications like rheumatic fever or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. However, the test results should always be considered in conjunction with clinical symptoms and other diagnostic tests.

Implications and Medical Management

If there are abnormalities in the DNase-B Antibody test, what might be the next steps?

If elevated DNase-B antibody levels are detected, further evaluation might be necessary. This could include additional laboratory tests, imaging studies, or specialist referrals, especially if rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis is suspected. Medical management might involve antibiotics to treat any lingering streptococcal infection, anti-inflammatory drugs, and monitoring or treatment for heart or kidney issues.

Test Specifics

How is the DNase-B Antibody test different from the ASO (antistreptolysin O) titer test?

Both the DNase-B Antibody test and the ASO titer test are used to detect antibodies produced in response to a group A streptococcal infection. However, they target different antibodies. While the DNase-B test detects antibodies against the DNase-B enzyme produced by streptococcal bacteria, the ASO test detects antibodies against the streptolysin O enzyme. Often, these tests might be ordered together to provide a comprehensive view of the immune response to streptococcal infections.

Are there conditions or factors that might influence the results of the DNase-B Antibody test?

Yes, certain conditions or factors can affect the results of the DNase-B Antibody test. Recent or concurrent infections with other types of bacteria or viruses might produce cross-reacting antibodies that could influence the test. Chronic illnesses, immunodeficiency conditions, and certain medications that suppress the immune system might also affect antibody production and thus the test results.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.