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).
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c-ANCA (Cytoplasmic): Antibodies attack the inside of the cell (associated with PR3 antigen).
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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:
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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.
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Kidney & Lung Damage: Crucial for patients presenting with “Pulmonary-Renal Syndrome” (coughing blood + kidney failure).
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Autoimmune Screening: It helps rule out vasculitis in patients with unexplained fever, weight loss, and multi-organ failure.
When is this test recommended?
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As part of a full Autoimmune Workup for complex, undiagnosed illnesses.
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For patients with chronic sinus infections, hearing loss, or lung nodules that don’t respond to antibiotics.
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To monitor disease activity in patients already diagnosed with Vasculitis.
Sample Requirements:
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Specimen: Serum (Blood).
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Container: Gold Top (SST) or Red Top Tube.
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Preparation: No fasting is required
