ANCA

Alternative names, keywords

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody, myeloperoxidase antibody, proteinase 3 antibody, MPO antibody, PR3 antibody.

Samples required

Clotted blood (gold cap, 5 mL tube). Smaller tubes are available for paediatric samples.

Test indications

Investigation and monitoring of small vessel vasculitis, acute renal failure and alveolitis.  Positives may also be seen in inflammatory bowel disease, but the test is not recommended for this purpose.

Test information

The first-line test is now detection of antibodies directed against myeloperoxidase (MPO) and proteinase 3 (PR3) by high-sensitivity assay, in line with the latest consensus guidelines. ANCA immunofluorescence is reserved for confirmation of positive samples.

Positive results in the presence of appropriate clinical features may be associated with ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV). Negative results do not exclude vasculitis.

Method: Phadia 250 EIA

Reference range

Turnaround time

3 days for MPO/ PR3 quantification.

Urgent analysis is available on request during routine hours. For same-day results, the sample must be received by 12pm and the laboratory must be notified in advance.

Enquiries

Immunology