Description
Serum, NA, Fasting or Non Fasting: As suggested by doctor
Sample Required:
A blood sample taken through an arm vein.
Test Time:
Typically, the test results are available in a few days.
Test Normal Range:
The ANCA test results are reported as positive or negative based on the presence of specific antibodies in the blood.
What is the Test?
The Anti Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody (ANCA) test is used to detect the presence of antibodies that target components of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell). ANCA is primarily used to diagnose autoimmune vasculitis, which is a group of disorders causing inflammation of blood vessels.
Test Procedure:
A healthcare professional will cleanse the area around a vein in your arm. A needle is inserted into the vein, and a small amount of blood is drawn into a syringe or vial. The blood sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis. Laboratory technicians perform tests to detect specific types of ANCA antibodies.
When to Take the Test:
The ANCA test is ordered when an individual shows symptoms of autoimmune vasculitis, such as unexplained weight loss, fatigue, joint pain, skin sores, and kidney problems.
Who Should Take This Test:
Individuals who are suspected of having autoimmune vasculitis or other autoimmune diseases that affect blood vessels may be recommended to take the ANCA test by their healthcare provider.
Precautions for Exceptional Cases (Pregnancy etc.):
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any existing medical conditions, inform your healthcare provider before taking this test. Pregnancy can sometimes affect the ANCA test results.
FAQs:
Q1: Can a positive ANCA result definitively diagnose autoimmune vasculitis?
A: A positive ANCA result indicates the presence of ANCA antibodies, which can be associated with autoimmune vasculitis. However, further tests and clinical evaluation are needed for a definitive diagnosis.
Q2: What are the types of ANCA antibodies?
A: The two main types of ANCA antibodies are c-ANCA (cytoplasmic ANCA) and p-ANCA (perinuclear ANCA), each associated with different types of vasculitis.
Q3: Can medications affect ANCA test results?
A: Some medications may lead to false positive ANCA results. Any medications you are taking should be disclosed to your healthcare professional.
Q4: Are ANCA antibodies specific to vasculitis?
A: ANCA antibodies can also be found in other conditions, so a positive result doesn’t necessarily mean vasculitis. Clinical evaluation is crucial for accurate interpretation.
Q5: Can ANCA tests predict disease severity?
A: ANCA tests provide information about the presence of antibodies but don’t predict disease severity. Disease severity is determined through various clinical and imaging assessments.
