Description
Overview: Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (Anti-CCP) antibodies are a type of autoantibody produced by the immune system that mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, specifically targeting citrullinated peptides found in the joints. The CLIA (Chemiluminescence Immunoassay) method is a highly sensitive and fully automated technique used to detect and quantify these antibodies in your blood.
Clinical Significance: The Anti-CCP test is considered a cornerstone in the diagnosis and management of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA).
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Early Diagnosis: Anti-CCP antibodies can be detected in the blood years before the onset of clinical symptoms, allowing for earlier intervention and treatment, which can significantly improve long-term outcomes.
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High Specificity: Compared to the Rheumatoid Factor (RF) test, Anti-CCP is much more specific for RA (around 95-98%). A positive result strongly indicates the presence of RA.
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Disease Severity Predictive Marker: High levels of Anti-CCP are often associated with a more aggressive and destructive form of the disease, indicating a higher risk of joint damage and deformity.
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Differential Diagnosis: It helps distinguish RA from other types of arthritis or autoimmune conditions with similar symptoms, such as Hepatitis C, Sjögren’s syndrome, or SLE, where RF might be positive but Anti-CCP is usually negative.
When is this test recommended?
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When a patient presents with symptoms suggestive of inflammatory arthritis, such as persistent joint pain, swelling, stiffness (especially in the morning), and warmth in the small joints of the hands and feet.
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To confirm a diagnosis of RA, especially when the Rheumatoid Factor (RF) test is negative (seronegative RA).
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To assess the prognosis and potential severity of the disease in newly diagnosed patients.
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Note: While highly specific, a negative result does not completely rule out RA, as some patients may be seronegative for both RF and Anti-CCP.
Sample Requirements:
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Specimen: Serum.
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Container: Gold Top (SST) or Red Top Tube.
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Preparation: No fasting is typically required.
