Frequency Of Anti Double Stranded Dna Seropositivity In Patients With Lupus Nephritis

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INTRODUCTION:
Renal involvement affects approximately 38% of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), with increased frequency and severity among African, Hispanic, and Asian populations. Lupus nephritis (LN) may present early or remain silent until progressing to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), contributing to significant morbidity. Variability in the prevalence of anti-double stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA) antibodies has been reported, and local data are scarce. This study aimed to assess the frequency of anti-dsDNA antibodies in patients with LN in our setting.

OBJECTIVE:
To determine the frequency of anti-dsDNA antibodies among patients with lupus nephritis.

METHODS:
A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Nephrology, IKD, Peshawar, over six months (June–July 2020). A total of 139 patients meeting the American College of Rheumatology criteria for SLE and confirmed to have LN were evaluated. ELISA was used to detect anti-dsDNA antibodies.

RESULTS:
The mean age was 38 ± 9.91 years. Females comprised 66% of the cohort. Anti-dsDNA antibodies were present in 41% of patients.

CONCLUSION:
Anti-dsDNA antibodies were detected in 41% of patients with lupus nephritis, highlighting the importance of routine screening for early detection and management.