Autoimmune ILD Panel
Autoimmune ILD Panel
An autoimmune interstitial lung disease (ILD) panel is a diagnostic tool used to identify autoimmune causes of ILD, a group of disorders characterized by lung inflammation and scarring. Antibodies are the proteins that defend you against disease-causing foreign substances, whereas autoantibodies are the proteins that cause disease by attacking or destroying a person’s own healthy body cells. Autoantibodies are associated with autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, and myositis, which can lead to ILD. Detecting these antibodies aids in diagnosing underlying autoimmune conditions contributing to ILD, guiding treatment decisions, and predicting disease progression.
Thus, getting an autoimmune ILD panel done is recommended to screen and monitor autoimmune-related ILD
Which tests are included?
An autoimmune ILD panel includes the following tests:
1. Anti-nuclear antibodies (ANAs) IFA, in dilutions: ANAs are antibodies that target healthy and typical proteins in the nucleus of a cell. The healthy tissues are attacked by these ANAs causing unfavourable outcomes. Autoimmune IDL panel aids in diagnosing several autoimmune disorders that may affect the lungs. These disorders include autoimmune hepatitis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), scleroderma, and Sjögren's syndrome.
2. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE): This test measures levels of ACE in blood, typically used to diagnose sarcoidosis, a systemic inflammatory disorder. In autoimmune ILD, elevated ACE levels may suggest granulomatous inflammation. However, ACE levels alone are not diagnostic for ILD; they serve as a supplementary tool in evaluating disease activity and response to treatment.
3. Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP): CCP antibodies or anti-CCP antibodies test is used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by detecting antibodies that target proteins in the joints. In autoimmune ILD, elevated CCP levels may indicate an increased risk of developing ILD in RA patients.
4. Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA): ANCA are autoantibodies that attack healthy white blood cells called neutrophils. The presence of ANCA is an indication of an autoimmune disease. In autoimmune ILD, ANCA may indicate certain types of ILD such as ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV), where inflammation affects small blood vessels.
5. Rheumatoid factor (RA): It is a blood test that measures the presence of antibodies produced by the immune system. Elevated levels of rheumatoid factor are often associated with autoimmune conditions, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. However, in the case of autoimmune ILD, RF positivity can indicate a higher risk of lung involvement and severity.
Symptoms of autoimmune ILD
The symptoms of autoimmune ILD may vary from one person to another. However, some of the common symptoms of ILD include
Dry cough
Difficulty breathing
Chest pain
Wheezing
Fatigue
Weight loss
Who should get tested?
An autoimmune ILD panel is advised for individuals who exhibit
Family history of lung diseases
Signs and symptoms of autoimmune ILD
Other autoimmune conditions
Abnormal lung function test results
Signs of ILD, to monitor treatment response.
Test preparation
No special preparations are required for the autoimmune ILD panel test. You are required to inform your healthcare provider about all your medications, and vitamin supplements, if any. You may also be asked to stop taking certain substances (herbal supplements) for at least 8-10 hours before taking this test, as indicated by your healthcare provider
Interpretation of the Test Results
Interpretation of results
|
Results |
Inference |
|
|
Antinuclear antibodies (titre ratio) |
>1:160
<1:160 |
Positive: Antibodies are detected Negative: No antibodies are detected |
|
Angiotensin converting enzyme |
>40 micrograms/litre
< 40 micrograms/litre |
May be a sign of sarcoidosis
Normal |
|
Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies |
Presence of IgG and IgM antibodies
Absence of IgG and IgM antibodies |
Positive: Antibodies are detected Negative: No antibodies are detected |
|
Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies |
Presence of IgG and IgM antibodies
Absence of IgG and IgM antibodies |
Positive: Antibodies are detected Negative: No antibodies are detected |
|
Rheumatoid factor |
Presence of IgG and IgM antibodies
Absence of IgG and IgM antibodies |
Positive: Antibodies are detected Negative: No antibodies are detected |
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the autoimmune ILD panel?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a small needle. Usually, this process does not take more than 5 minutes
What are the risks associated with the autoimmune ILD panel?
This panel involves negligible risk. There might be slight soreness or tenderness around the site where the blood was drawn. Rarely, the site can become infected
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the autoimmune ILD panel?
The autoimmune ILD panel results are usually available within 2-3 working days after the sample collection. The TAT may vary depending on the diagnostic clinic
What factors might affect my panel results?
Factors such as obesity, lack of exercise, cigarette smoking, minor injuries, and conditions such as pregnancy and diabetes can raise your inflammation slightly above normal. Also, certain medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, and steroids can lower your inflammation below normal. So, it is recommended to consult your healthcare provider before getting this test done
How can I prevent the developing of autoimmune ILD?
Preventing autoimmune ILD involves managing underlying autoimmune conditions effectively with medication and lifestyle changes. Regular monitoring of lung function and early detection of symptoms are crucial. Avoiding exposure to environmental toxins and quitting smoking can help reduce the risk. Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and seeking prompt medical attention for any respiratory issues are essential preventive measures
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