Which autoantibodies are commonly associated with systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis?

• A. Anti-centromere antibodies
• B. Anti-dsDNA antibodies
• C. Antiphospholipid antibodies
• D. Anti-CCP antibodies

Answer: (B)

Autoantibodies against double-stranded DNA are classically linked to systemic lupus erythematosus and, importantly, to lupus nephritis. In SLE, these anti-dsDNA antibodies form immune complexes with DNA fragments released from dying cells. These complexes deposit in the glomeruli, activating complement and triggering inflammation that leads to renal injury. Clinically, dsDNA antibody levels often rise with active nephritis and fall as the disease is controlled, and low complement levels (C3, C4) frequently accompany flares.

Other antibodies listed point to different diseases or manifestations: anti-centromere antibodies are more typical of limited systemic sclerosis; antiphospholipid antibodies are associated with antiphospholipid syndrome, which involves thrombosis and pregnancy-related complications rather than nephritis; anti-CCP antibodies are characteristic of rheumatoid arthritis.