Description
The ANCA Profile is a specialized autoimmune screen used to detect inflammation in the blood vessels (Vasculitis). It checks for two specific antibody patterns (c-ANCA and p-ANCA) to help diagnose conditions like Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA) and Microscopic Polyangiitis.
Overview: This test is the core component of the “Autoimmune Vasculitis Menu.” It uses Immunofluorescence (IFA) to visualize how antibodies interact with white blood cells (neutrophils).
c-ANCA (Cytoplasmic): Antibodies attack the inside of the cell (associated with PR3 antigen).
p-ANCA (Perinuclear): Antibodies attack the area around the nucleus (associated with MPO antigen). A positive result in this profile usually triggers more specific confirmatory tests (MPO/PR3 ELISA) to pinpoint the exact diagnosis.
Clinical Significance:
Systemic Vasculitis: It is the gold standard for diagnosing small-vessel vasculitis, a serious condition where immune attacks cause blood vessels to swell and burst.
Kidney & Lung Damage: Crucial for patients presenting with “Pulmonary-Renal Syndrome” (coughing blood + kidney failure).
Autoimmune Screening: It helps rule out vasculitis in patients with unexplained fever, weight loss, and multi-organ failure.
When is this test recommended?
As part of a full Autoimmune Workup for complex, undiagnosed illnesses.
For patients with chronic sinus infections, hearing loss, or lung nodules that don’t respond to antibiotics.
To monitor disease activity in patients already diagnosed with Vasculitis.
Sample Requirements:
Specimen: Serum (Blood).
Container: Gold Top (SST) or Red Top Tube.
Preparation: No fasting is required
