HISTONE ANTIBODIES - serum

---

Specimen: 5 mL blood in plain tube.

Method: Immunoassay.

Application: To define specificity of ANA. Classically histone antibodies give a homogeneous pattern on indirect IF.

Interpretation: Histone antibodies are of limited value in distinguishing between SLE and drug-induced lupus. Although present in 100% of procainamide-induced lupus, they also occur in 20% of patients with SLE.

Reference: Hess E V. Bull Rheum Dis 1991; 40: 1-8.

---