Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody
Test Description The anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody test (ANCA) is used primarily in the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with Wegener’s granulomatosis (WG). WG is an autoimmune disease, which is characterized by inflammation in many tissues of the body, including the upper and lower respiratory system, the kidneys, eyes, ears, and skin. The blood vessels in these areas become inflamed, a condition known as vasculitis, and granulomas develop. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment with cytotoxic agents is usually needed. Normal Values ANCA by immunofluorescence: Negative ANCA by EIA: Negative: <21 Units Weak Positive: 21–30 Units Positive: >30 Units Possible Meanings of Abnormal Values Increased Glomerulonephritis Inflammatory bowel disease Polyarthritis nodosa Systemic arthritis Wegener’s granulomatosis Interventions/Implications Pretest • Explain to the p...