Anti-DNase B blood test

What is an Anti-DNase B Blood Test?

The anti-DNase B blood test is a test that measures the presence of antibodies that are made by the body in response to the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes. These antibodies are part of the body's immune response to the presence of this type of bacteria, and can be used to indicate a recent or current infection.

Preparation for the Test

No specific preparation is needed for this test. It is administered as part of a routine blood test, and the patient will usually be asked to fast for at least 8 hours before taking the test. For infants and young children, this may not be necessary.

Procedure of the Test

The anti-DNase B test is performed by a healthcare provider in a medical facility. The blood sample is taken from a vein in the arm and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results are usually available within one to two days after the sample is collected.

Types of Anti-DNase B Tests

There are two types of anti-DNase B tests available. These include:

• The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test, which looks for antibodies in a sample of the patient's blood.
• The rapid strep test, which is a point of care test that is used to detect the presence of active strep bacteria.

Risks of the Test

The anti-DNase B test is generally considered to be a safe procedure with minimal risk. The most common risks are related to the procedure used to obtain the blood sample, such as pain or bruising at the puncture site, bleeding, and lightheadedness.

Why is the Test Done?

The anti-DNase B test is used to detect and monitor the presence of S. pyogenes bacteria in the body. These bacteria can cause a variety of infections, including strep throat, urinary tract infections, sinus infections, and meningitis. The test is usually ordered when a patient has signs and symptoms of a strep infection, such as sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.

When is the Test Done?

The anti-DNase B test is usually ordered when a patient has symptoms of a strep infection. It may also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment. The test may also be ordered for people who have been exposed to an infected individual, as the test can detect active bacteria in the body.