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Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (CCP) Antibody, IgG — Qualitative

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A blood test that detects IgG antibodies to citrullinated peptides, which can help support a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

Quick summary

["A positive CCP IgG result can support a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis, but it must be interpreted with symptoms and other findings."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
21231-6
Short code
Deprecated Crab IgG RAST Ql
Synonyms
Deprecated Crab IgG RAST Ql
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test checks a blood sample for IgG antibodies directed against citrullinated peptides. These antibodies are often called anti-CCP antibodies and may be associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered when joint pain, swelling, or morning stiffness could be caused by rheumatoid arthritis. The result is usually considered alongside the medical examination, other antibody tests, and imaging.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory professional analyzes a blood sample and reports whether CCP IgG antibodies are detected. It is sometimes used as part of a rheumatoid arthritis screening panel.

How do I prepare for the test?

This test generally requires no special preparation. Follow any instructions from your healthcare professional or laboratory, and do not stop prescribed medicines unless your clinician advises you to do so.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CCP IgG antibody test

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive CCP IgG result mean I definitely have rheumatoid arthritis?
No. The result must be interpreted with your symptoms, examination findings, and other tests because a positive result is not always due to rheumatoid arthritis.
Can this test be negative even if I have rheumatoid arthritis?
Yes. Some people with rheumatoid arthritis do not have detectable CCP IgG antibodies, so a negative result does not completely rule it out.
Is this the same as a rheumatoid factor test?
No. CCP IgG and rheumatoid factor are different antibodies. They may be ordered together because each can provide useful information about the likelihood of rheumatoid arthritis.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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

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