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Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies (ANCA-C)

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

ANCA-C measures the presence of antibodies targeting cytoplasmic antigens in neutrophils, which are often associated with inflammatory conditions like vasculitis.

Quick summary

ANCA-C is a diagnostic marker for inflammatory conditions such as vasculitis.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
titer
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
qualitative
FDA-cleared
Roche c-ANCA, Abbott ANCA, Siemens ANCA, Euroimmun ANCA
interpretation: {"text":"Titer of 0–1: Negative for ANCA-C antibodies, suggesting no current indication of associated inflammatory conditions.","label":"Normal"}; {"text":"Titer >1: Positive for ANCA-C antibodies, indicating a possible presence of vasculitis or other inflammatory conditions.","label":"Elevated"}

ANCA-C, or Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies with cytoplasmic pattern, are autoantibodies that target proteins in the cytoplasm of neutrophils. These antibodies are commonly found in patients with vasculitis, particularly those with Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA), formerly known as Wegener's granulomatosis.

The presence of ANCA-C is detected through indirect immunofluorescence, where a titer of 0–1 is considered normal. Elevated titers suggest an increased likelihood of an underlying inflammatory condition.

This biomarker is crucial for the diagnosis and monitoring of systemic vasculitis and other autoimmune disorders. It aids clinicians in differentiating between various types of vasculitis and guiding appropriate treatment strategies.

Frequently asked questions

What conditions are associated with a positive ANCA-C result?
A positive ANCA-C result is often associated with vasculitis, particularly Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA), and other autoimmune disorders.
How is the ANCA-C test performed?
The ANCA-C test is performed using indirect immunofluorescence, where a blood sample is examined for the presence of antibodies targeting neutrophil cytoplasm.
  1. 1
    American College of Rheumatology: ANCA TestingSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic: ANCA VasculitisSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

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If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy