Ancaigaseracnc
This blood test measures IgA antibodies that target neutrophils, helping diagnose certain autoimmune conditions affecting blood vessels.
{"Measures IgA antibodies against neutrophils in your blood","Helps diagnose autoimmune vasculitis and related conditions","A simple blood draw is all that's needed","Results help your doctor determine if your immune system is attacking your own blood vessels","Often ordered along with other tests for a complete picture"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 18329-3
- Short code
- ANC-IgA
- Synonyms
- ANCA IgA Ser-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top vacutainer tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 1
- Critical range
- 0.5 N/A – —
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
- CPT
- 86255
- SNOMED
- 39579001
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum
- Stability
- Serum stable at room temperature for 8 hours; refrigerated (2-8°C) for 7 days; frozen at -20°C or below for long-term storage up to 6 months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Neutrophil Cytoplasmic IgA Antibody test detects the presence of immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies that specifically target neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell. These antibodies are typically associated with certain autoimmune conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, particularly small blood vessels.
Why is it performed?
This test is primarily ordered to help diagnose and monitor conditions such as IgA vasculitis (Henoch-Schönlein purpura), microscopic polyangiitis, and other autoimmune disorders that affect blood vessels (vasculitis). It may also be used to differentiate between various types of vasculitis and to monitor disease activity during treatment.
How is the test done?
A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed using specialized techniques to detect the presence and quantity of IgA antibodies targeting neutrophils. No special preparation is typically needed, though your doctor may ask you to fast or avoid certain medications before the test.
Reference range
Negative: <1:20 titer; results interpreted qualitatively (positive/negative). Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and assay methodology.N/A
No fasting required. Patient should be well-hydrated. Avoid recent immunosuppressive therapy if clinically feasible, as it may affect antibody levels.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is this test painful?
How long does it take to get results?
Do I need to fast before this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Sources
- 1Mayo Clinic - VasculitisSource
- 2
- 3
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.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy