Anti-DFS70 antibodies: an update on our current understanding and their clinical usefulness

Abstract

Anti-DFS70 antibodies and their clinical associations remain an immunological paradox. Unlike other antinuclear antibodies (ANA), there is a growing body of evidence that anti-DFS70 antibodies, when present in high titers and in isolation (without accompanying other antibodies), are useful to aid in the exclusion of ANA associated rheumatic diseases. Areas covered: This review aims to analyze and interpret the current published knowledge and recent findings to provide guidance in the use of anti-DFS70 antibodies to analyze associations of this unique autoantibody. Expert commentary: Although the association of anti-DFS70 antibodies is still unknown, their use as a biomarker that can aid in the exclusion of ANA related diseases is well-established.

Keywords: ANA; ANA associated rheumatic disease; Autoantibodies; anti-DFS70; antinuclear antibodies; dense fine speckled; indirect immunofluorescence.