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Anti Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Ab

Anti Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Ab

The Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies (ANCA) test is an essential diagnostic tool for identifying and monitoring autoimmune diseases, particularly those affecting blood vessels, known as vasculitis. This serological test detects autoantibodies that mistakenly target the cytoplasmic granules of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell. The two primary types of ANCA are perinuclear ANCA (pANCA) and cytoplasmic ANCA (cANCA), each associated with different proteins within neutrophils. The test is performed using indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) to observe specific fluorescence patterns, which help differentiate between pANCA and cANCA. Positive results can indicate conditions such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis, microscopic polyangiitis, and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Additionally, ANCA positivity is sometimes observed in inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis. By providing critical insights into the presence and type of ANCA, this test aids healthcare providers in diagnosing, monitoring, and managing autoimmune vasculitis and related conditions effectively.

Price of test:£65

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £65

Awaiting result:

One day

Collect material:

Blood

Prepare:

Learn more

Purpose of the test

The ANCA test is essential for diagnosing autoimmune diseases affecting blood vessels. It detects autoantibodies targeting neutrophil granules, using indirect immunofluorescence to identify pANCA and cANCA patterns. Key points include:

- pANCA: Targets myeloperoxidase, showing a perinuclear pattern.
- cANCA: Targets proteinase 3, showing a cytoplasmic pattern.

Positive results suggest autoimmune vasculitis, aiding in diagnosing conditions like granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis. Monitoring ANCA levels helps assess treatment effectiveness and detect relapses, ensuring effective disease management.

Who Should Get Tested

The ANCA test is essential for diagnosing autoimmune diseases affecting blood vessels. It detects autoantibodies targeting neutrophils, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions like:

- Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA): Involves blood vessel inflammation and granuloma formation.
- Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA): Small blood vessel inflammation, often linked to pANCA.
- Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA): Blood vessel inflammation with increased eosinophils.

Positive ANCA results, combined with clinical symptoms, guide diagnosis and treatment monitoring. The test's accuracy is crucial for managing these complex conditions effectively.

Blood Test Preparation Guidelines

Time of day

It is recommended to schedule your appointment for blood tests in the morning hours between 7:00-10:00.

Fasting

It is recommended to fast for approximately 12 hours before blood sampling. The last meal of the previous day should ideally be consumed around 6:00 p.m. On the day before the test, avoid heavy and fatty meals as well as alcohol.

Stay hydrated

Drinking water prior to testing can help with sample collection.

Other factors

Tests should not be performed after a sleepless night or intense physical activity. It is recommended to avoid exercise and stress immediately before blood collection and to not smoke. A short rest is recommended.

Medications and supplements:

Blood samples should be collected before the morning dose. Some drugs can interfere with test results. Consult with your doctor whether you can delay your dose because of lab tests.

Biotin supplements:

High doses of biotin supplements can affect test results, causing false elevation or reduction. It's recommended to avoid taking biotin for at least 72 hours before blood collection. If you are taking biotin, inform the personnel collecting the blood so that they can provide specific instructions.

Interpreting Test Results

Understanding test results is crucial for effective diagnosis and management of autoimmune diseases. The ANCA test identifies autoantibodies targeting neutrophils, aiding in diagnosing conditions like vasculitis.

- Negative Result: No ANCAs detected; autoimmune vasculitis unlikely.
- Positive Result: Presence of ANCAs; suggests autoimmune vasculitis.
- pANCA Positive: Linked to MPA, EGPA, and ulcerative colitis.
- cANCA Positive: Highly specific for GPA.

These results, combined with clinical symptoms, guide healthcare providers in treatment decisions and monitoring disease progression.

Price of test:£65

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £65

AI-Powered Insights and Expert Validation

Advanced AI Interpretation

Diagu's AI system represents a breakthrough in medical test analysis, employing state-of-the-art algorithms meticulously trained on a vast spectrum of authoritative medical literature and data. This system intricately analyses laboratory test results, extracting nuanced insights that might elude conventional methods. Our AI delves into complex interrelations between various health markers, offering a comprehensive understanding that supports accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. The foundation of our AI's analytical prowess lies in its extensive training, encompassing data from globally recognised medical journals, trusted healthcare databases, and breakthrough scientific studies. This ensures that every analysis is grounded in the latest and most comprehensive medical knowledge.

Expert Doctor Confirmation

While our AI provides deep analytical insights, the human touch remains indispensable. Every AI-generated interpretation is meticulously reviewed by experienced medical professionals, ensuring a harmonious blend of advanced technology and expert clinical judgment. This dual-layer approach guarantees that the insights provided are not only technologically sophisticated but also clinically relevant. Our medical experts ensure that the AI's interpretations align with current medical standards and practices, adding a layer of validation that only seasoned healthcare professionals can provide. This process reinforces the reliability of the test results, offering peace of mind to both patients and healthcare providers.

Language Model and Trusted Sources

At the core of Diagu's AI system is an advanced language model, engineered to transform complex medical data into clear, comprehensible, and informative descriptions. This model is adept at articulating detailed test analyses in a way that is accessible to both healthcare professionals and patients. The model's development involved the meticulous processing of high-quality sources, including reputable medical websites, renowned medical textbooks, and peer-reviewed research papers. This ensures that the language used in test descriptions is not only accurate and informative but also up-to-date with the latest medical findings and trends. By leveraging this rich tapestry of trusted sources, our AI system provides a deeper understanding of each test, fostering informed decision-making and enhanced patient care.

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