[Determination of anti-DNA and anti-RNA antibodies in serum and CSF by a new counterimmunoelectrophoresis method].

A new quantitative counterimmunoelectrophoresis technique allows the determination of anti-DNA and anti-RNA antibodies in the serum and the unconcentrated CSF. Normal sera (but not normal CSF) presents anti-DNA and anti-RNA antibodies probably of IgG type. Pathological results (elevated serum values and/or presence of anti-nucleic antibodies in CSF) are observed in some neurological diseases especially SSPE, multiple sclerosis and, generally speaking infectious diseases. A very significant correlation exists between the presence of anti-nucleic antibodies in CSF and a local (intrathecal) IgG synthesis. The same correlation is observed with oligoclonal aspect in CSF. In some cases a percentage of anti-nucleic antibodies higher in CSF than in serum may indicate the persistence of an infectious agent inside the central nervous system.