Anti-DNase B (Streptococcal) Antibodies

Provides evidence of an existing or past streptococcal infection.

ADNase B antibodies react against the exoenzyme desoxyribonuclease B produced by streptococci. The detection of these antibodies provides evidence of an existing or past streptococcal infection (rheumatic fever, scarlet fever, tonsillitis, glomerulonephritis, and others). The antibody reaction against streptococcal DNase B starts later than the antibody production against streptolysin O, but it can then be detected on a greater percentage of patients.¹ An increase in the antistreptolysin concentration rarely occurs with skin infections, while a rise in the ADNase B titer can be observed.^1-3

1. Hederstedt B, Holm SE, Wadström T. Antibodies after B-Streptococcal infections. In: Medical Laboratory. Marburg, Germany: Behringwerke AG;1979: 7:24-28.

2. Dillon HC Jr, Reeves MS. Streptococcal immune responses in nephritis after skin infections. Am J Med. 1974 Mar; 56(3):333-346. PubMed 4813651

3. Kaplan EL, Anthony BF, Chapman SS, Ayoub EM, Wannamaker LW. The influence of the site of infection on the immune response to group A streptococci. J Clin Invest. 1970 Jul; 49(7):1405-1414. PubMed 5432372