Various test methods are available for the routine detection of autoantibodies against dsDNA: enzyme immunotests (ELISA, EUROASSAY, EUROLINE), Farr RIA and the Crithidia luciliae immunofluorescence test (CLIFT). The various test systems differ, sometimes greatly, in sensitivity and specificity. Conventional CLIFT shows a particularly high disease specificity, while the IIFT Crithidia luciliae sensitive is a very sensitive test.

Using an innovative biological preparation, scientists at EUROIMMUN have developed a new test system: the Anti-dsDNA-NcX ELISA, which surpasses by far the diagnostic quality characteristics of all conventional anti-dsDNA ELISA. The secret of the innovation lies in the use of highly purified nucleosomes as the new linking substance. Since nucleosomes have a strong adhesive ability, even the smallest concentration of these is highly suited to coupling isolated dsDNA to the surface of a microplate well. Poly-L-lysine and protamine sulphate are now obsolete, and many false positive reactions can be avoided. In a clinical comparative study of 378 patients with rheumatic diseases (of these 209 with SLE), the Anti-dsDNA-NcX ELISA yielded an 8% higher sensitivity than the anti-dsDNA RIA (Farr assay), demonstrating its superior capabilities.

Nevertheless, different test methods identify different SLE subgroups. To increase the serological detection rate different test systems should be combined.