Anti Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies (ANCA)
Immunology and Allergy Overview / Directory
Purpose of the test
This is an indirect immunofluorescence assay using ethanol fixed neutrophils as substrate. ANCA is associated with small vessel vasculitides. Two patterns are recognised, perinuclear or P-ANCA and cytoplasmic or C-ANCA. A finding of P-ANCA is not antigen specific, as this pattern is associated with several neutrophil antigens. It is generally accepted that C-ANCA is a more antigen specific pattern.
Because the immunofluorescence pattern is non-antigen specific all positive ANCA patterns are further investigated with antigen specific ELISA for both anti-myeloperoxidase (MPO) and anti-proteinase 3 (PR3).
Sample Requirements
2 ml freshly separated serum
Storage and Transport
Serum stored at 4°C should be sent by first class post
Turnaround Time
This assay is performed daily
Time Limit for Extra Tests
Five days
Factors affecting results or interpretation
All tests are compromised by prolonged transit times. For this reason, date of bleed and date of postage must be provided with each request.
Price
Price available on application - please contact adrianturner1@nhs.net. Discounts could be available for significant workloads.
Contacts
John Cazabon or Rosemary Ebling, Lead Biomedical Scientists
T 020 3299 1559
Dr Ted Davies, Consultant Clinical Scientist
Telephone: 020 3299 9000 Ex 8752
