Anti-DNase B (Streptococcal) Antibodies details

Anti-DNase B antibodies develop in response to a recent infection with group A Streptococcus bacteria — the same bacteria responsible for strep throat and certain skin infections. This test is used mainly to help confirm a recent strep infection when it's suspected as the trigger behind complications like rheumatic fever (which can affect the heart, joints, and nervous system) or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (a kidney inflammation). It's often ordered alongside antistreptolysin O (ASO) antibodies, since testing both increases the chance of catching evidence of a recent strep infection — anti-DNase B is particularly useful for detecting skin-related strep infections, which don't always trigger a strong ASO response.