DNA (Single Stranded) Antibodies

This test checks for single-stranded DNA (anti-ss DNA) antibodies, found in around half of people with systemic lupus erythematosus. It suits people already being investigated for lupus who want this more specific, though less sensitive, marker checked.

  • Doctor reviewed
Sample
Blood
Collection
Venous draw at clinic or nurse home visit
Results in
10 days
Biomarkers
1
Doctor reviewed
Yes
Tests for
  • DNA (Single Stranded) Antibodies (anti-ss DNA)

Test specifications

Sample type
blood
Collection method
venous draw at clinic or nurse home visit
Turnaround time
10 days
Biomarkers tested
1
At-home test
No
Doctor reviewed
Yes
Gender focus
Both

What's tested

1 biomarker as listed by Blue Horizon Medicals.

  • DNA (Single Stranded) Antibodies (anti-ss DNA)

About this test

Anti-ss DNA antibodies are found in around half of people with systemic lupus erythematosus, and according to the provider they are more specific to lupus than the ANA marker, though less sensitive, and are associated with more severe forms of the condition. The provider also notes the marker is less useful for investigating other autoimmune disorders because it appears in a number of unrelated conditions.

This test measures anti-ss DNA on its own. At £82.25 it sits a little below the median price of £89 for the 26 similarly sized inflammation and autoimmune tests we track. It requires a venous blood draw at a clinic or during a nurse home visit, and results take around ten days, longer than the related anti-ds DNA test from the same provider.

It scores in the middle of the range for clinical depth, reflecting the single marker, and slightly above average for value for money given the price sits below the category median. Collection convenience is limited by the lack of an at-home option and the longer wait for results. Results are reviewed by a doctor.

Who is it for?

This suits you if you are already being investigated for lupus and a GP or specialist wants this more specific antibody checked alongside other tests, rather than as a first-line screen for autoimmune symptoms generally. Speak to your GP about your symptoms before ordering this test on its own.

We do not track a comparable anti-ss DNA test from another provider to suggest as an alternative.

How it works

You give a venous blood sample at a clinic or during a nurse home visit; there is no at-home finger-prick option. Once the sample reaches the lab, anti-ss DNA antibodies are measured and the results are reviewed by a doctor before being sent back to you, typically within around ten days.

Pros & cons

Pros

  • Priced below the median for inflammation tests of similar size.
  • More specific to lupus than the ANA marker, according to the provider.
  • A nurse home visit is offered if you would prefer not to travel to a clinic.
  • A doctor reviews the results as standard before they reach you.

Cons

  • No finger-prick option; a venous draw at a clinic or nurse visit is required.
  • Results take around ten days, longer than some related antibody tests.
  • Provider notes it is less useful for autoimmune conditions other than lupus.

Our editorial score

Compare Health Test Score Anti-ss DNA marker, priced below the category median
Editorial confidence: 10.0/10

At £82.25, this test for anti-ss DNA antibodies is priced a little below the typical cost for inflammation and autoimmune tests of this size. It requires a venous blood draw at a clinic or nurse home visit, with results in around ten days and doctor review. The provider notes it is less useful for autoimmune conditions other than lupus.

Score breakdown

  • Clarity and documentation 8.0/10

    The listing publishes a short description, the full biomarker list, a stated turnaround, clear collection options, the sample type; it does not state what the report looks like.

  • Clinical depth 6.4/10

    1 biomarkers, placing it in the 32nd percentile of inflammation tests we track.

  • Collection convenience 8.0/10

    A blood sample taken at home by a visiting nurse or phlebotomist; with a venous or clinic option as well; a home nurse visit is offered; results in around 10 days, slower than similar tests.

  • Results and follow-up 7.0/10

    Results are reviewed by a doctor; the provider does not describe the report format.

  • Trust signals 7.5/10

    Trustpilot 4.2 from 395 reviews; accredited lab (UKAS ISO 15189 partner labs); trading 17+ years.

  • Value for money 6.9/10

    £82.25 against a median of £89.00 for the 26 similarly sized inflammation tests we track (-8%).

Calculated 13 September 2026 from the facts we hold about this test and provider, using our published scoring formula. Scores are not hand-edited.

View all →

Extractable Nuclear Antibodies (ENA) Blood Test

Eight-marker autoimmunity screen at low cost

This blood test checks for eight autoantibodies commonly associated with autoimmune conditions such as lupus or Sjögren's syndrome. It suits people with unexplained symptoms like joint pain, fatigue or dry eyes who want to investigate a possible autoimmune cause.

8.8 / 10

Extractable Nuclear Antibodies (ENA)

Broad 7-marker autoimmune antibody panel

This blood test screens for seven extractable nuclear antibodies (ENA), typically requested after a positive antinuclear antibody (ANA) test or when an autoimmune disorder is suspected. It suits people who need this more detailed panel to follow up on that earlier result.

8.4 / 10

CRP Blood Test for Inflammation

Single CRP marker priced well below the market median

A single high-sensitivity CRP blood test measuring low-grade inflammation, commonly used alongside other risk factors to assess long-term heart disease risk.

  • At-home test
8.4 / 10