Anti DsDNA

You should get an anti-dsDNA test if your ANA test is positive and you have symptoms of lupus, such as joint pain, facial rash, sun sensitivity, mouth ulcers, hair loss, fever, fatigue, or swelling with protein in the urine. It is also recommended regularly in diagnosed lupus to monitor disease activity and kidney involvement.

No special preparation or fasting is required for an anti-dsDNA test. Inform your doctor about any steroids, hydroxychloroquine, or immunosuppressants, as treatment can lower antibody levels. Also mention medicines like TNF inhibitors. For monitoring, use the same lab each time, as results vary between methods.

No, fasting is not required for an anti-dsDNA test. You can eat and drink normally before giving your sample, and the test can be done at any time of day. For follow-up monitoring, use the same lab each time, and inform your doctor about any lupus treatment you take.