Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies (ANCA), IFA in Dilutions
Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies (ANCA), IFA in Dilutions
The ANCA test detects the presence of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) in a given sample of your blood by using an immunofluorescence assay (IFA). IFA identifies antibodies that attach to a tissue substrate. ANCA are autoantibodies that attack healthy white blood cells called neutrophils. The presence of ANCA is an indication of an autoimmune disease. Healthcare providers will order this test if you have symptoms of autoimmune vasculitis.
ANCA test also known as ANCA Antibodies, Serine Protease 3, MPO, cANCA, pANCA, PR3, 3-ANCA, PR3-ANCA, MPO-ANCA Anticytoplasmic Autoantibodies, Myeloperoxidase Antibodies, Proteinase 3 Antibodies test
What is an ANCA test used for?
ANCA test is used to diagnose autoimmune diseases like:
Autoimmune vasculitis (Inflammation of blood vessels)
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Rheumatoid arthritis (Joints)
Scleroderma (Skin)
Sjogren's syndrome (Glands)
Addison Disease (Adrenal gland)
Autoimmune hepatitis(liver)
Psoriasis (Skin)
Type 1 diabetes
Thyroid diseases (Autoimmune)
To distinguish ulcerative colitis from Crohn’s disease
Which tests are included?
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The ANCA test measures the level of two main types of ANCA, each of which targets a specific protein inside white blood cells (neutrophils).
During a laboratory examination, a person’s sample is mixed with neutrophils. If the sample has ANCA present, it will attach to neutrophils. To this, a special stain is added that allows the cells to create a certain pattern of fluorescence. These patterns are listed below:
P-ANCA (perinuclear pattern): It appears as perinuclear fluorescence with nuclear extension. It targets a specific protein called myeloperoxidase (MPO). MPO is an enzyme that neutrophils release to defend against invading pathogens (foreign substances).
C-ANCA (cytoplasmic pattern): It corresponds to diffuse granular cytoplasmic fluorescence. It targets a specific protein called proteinase 3 (PR3). PR3 is an enzyme released during neutrophil inflammation. It has the ability to destroy many target cells in the body.
Note:
Sometimes a third aspect called atypical (a-ANCA), which has the combined characteristics of p-ANCA and c-ANCA, is also present.
Who should be tested?
ANCA test is recommended to be performed frequently for individuals who have symptoms of an autoimmune disease. The symptoms vary depending on the affected body part. The common symptoms include:
Fever
Fatigue
Weight loss
Muscle or joint aches
Rashes
Recurrent sores
Hearing loss
Vision loss
Test preparation
No preparation is required for the ANCA test. You need to provide a proper medical history to your healthcare provider before undergoing this test.
Interpretation of the Test Results
The test result may be positive or negative.
Negative result
If your test results were negative, it indicates the absence of ANCA in your blood. It means that you are less likely to have autoimmune disorders.
Positive result
If your test results were positive, it indicates the presence of ANCA in your blood. A positive ANCA test indicates that the individual is more likely to have autoimmune disorders. Positive test results also show the presence of p-ANCA or c-ANCA, which in turn helps in the determination of the type of vasculitis from which you are suffering
FAQs
What is the significance of ANCA testing?
The ANCA test is performed to identify, quantify, and assess the presence of autoantibodies that are formed against the neutrophils in your blood. ANCA test can help doctors diagnose various autoimmune disorders like systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjogren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, IgG4-related diseases, and autoimmune hepatitis
How is the ANCA test performed?
A blood sample is used for this test. Blood is drawn with a needle from a vein in your hand or arm. The collected sample will be sent to the laboratory for analysis
Are there any risks involved with the ANCA test?
The ANCA test is a simple blood test procedure. When the needle pricks your arm or hand, you might experience a mild sting or pain. Sometimes bruising, bleeding, infections, and dizziness may occur around needle insertion
Does the ANCA test confirm autoimmune vasculitis?
A positive ANCA test indicates autoimmune vasculitis. To confirm this, an additional test known as a biopsy (the removal of a tissue sample) will be required. If you need any further information, it is advisable to consult your health care professional before the test
How long should I wait for the ANCA test results?
It depends on the testing laboratory. ANCA testing needs to be done with specialized equipment and knowledge. Not every laboratory offers it. Your sample will generally be sent to a testing laboratory, where it may take several days before results are available
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