Atypical ANCA

The Atypical ANCA (Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies) test measures the presence of specific antibodies in the blood that target proteins in neutrophils, a type of white blood cell. These antibodies are often linked to autoimmune conditions such as Churg-Strauss Syndrome, Ulcerative Colitis, autoimmune hepatitis and certain types of vasculitis. Unlike the typical ANCA test, which detects antibodies against proteins like proteinase 3 (PR3) and myeloperoxidase (MPO), the atypical ANCA test looks for antibodies against other antigens. This test is primarily used in diagnosing autoimmune conditions like vasculitis, particularly those that may not show up with other ANCA testing, helping doctors identify and manage these conditions more accurately.