Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody (Anti-CCP)
Immunology and Allergy Overview / Directory
Purpose of the test
Anti-CCP is an essential initial investigation in those patients suspected of having rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It is highly specific for RA unlike rheumatoid factor which occurs in many autoimmune and infective conditions. The presence of moderate to high levels of this autoantibody is prognostic of erosive disease in the majority of cases. The early diagnosis of RA allows therapeutic intervention to commence in a timely fashion so as to minimise bone and joint destruction.
Sample Requirements
2 ml of freshly separated serum
Storage and Transport
Serum stored at 4°C should be sent by first class post
Turnaround Time
5 working days
Time Limit for Extra Tests
10 working days
Factors affecting results or interpretation
All tests are compromised by long transit times. For this reason the date of bleed and 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
T 020 3299 9000 Ex 8752
Rosy Ebling, Lead BMS
T 020 3299 1559
