PR3 (c-ANCA)
The PR3 (c-ANCA) test is a blood test that helps diagnose certain autoimmune diseases, such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), previously called Wegener's granulomatosis, and other forms of vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels). It helps measure the antibodies against a specific protein called proteinase 3 (PR3), which is found in neutrophils (a type of white blood cell) that help fight off infections. It facilitates the prompt detection of these diseases and helps prevent organ damage by enabling timely treatment.
Understanding PR3 (c-ANCA)
PR3 antibodies are formed when the immune system mistakenly attacks the PR3 enzyme, found inside neutrophils. These antibodies are also called c-ANCA (cytoplasmic antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies) due to their staining pattern (diffuse, granular appearance of cytoplasm) during lab tests.
The PR3 (c-ANCA) test helps diagnose autoimmune diseases such as GPA and other forms of vasculitis, monitor disease activity, guide treatment decisions, and rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as infections or other autoimmune diseases.
A doctor may advise a PR3 (c-ANCA) test when there are symptoms of autoimmune vasculitis. General symptoms may include fever, fatigue, headache, weight loss, aches and pains, etc. Other symptoms depend on the parts of the body affected.
No special preparation is required for the PR3 (c-ANCA) test. Inform a doctor about all the medications (e.g., immunosuppressants, steroids, etc.) and supplements (e.g., biotin, etc.) that are currently being taken, as some of them may affect the test results, potentially requiring dosage adjustments or temporary discontinuation before the test.
Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Do not self-medicate, and always consult a doctor to understand the test results correctly.
What does PR3 (c-ANCA) measure?
The PR3 (c-ANCA) is a blood test that measures the levels of autoantibodies targeting the proteinase 3 (PR3) enzyme (located inside neutrophils). These autoantibodies are associated with autoimmune vasculitis disorders, particularly granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), and other forms of vasculitis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks small blood vessels. This test helps diagnose these diseases, track disease activity, evaluate treatment response, and predict flare-ups.
Active inflammation is usually suggested by high PR3-ANCA levels, whereas a decline in their levels can indicate the effectiveness of treatment. Results should, however, be interpreted in conjunction with clinical symptoms, as not all individuals with these diseases are positive, and false positive results may occur with other conditions such as infections.