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

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.