Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) profile by immunoassay (serum/plasma)
This blood test measures antibodies that target certain proteins in neutrophils, white blood cells. These antibodies can indicate an autoimmune condition called vasculitis.
["Helps diagnose and guide treatment for inflammatory diseases affecting blood vessels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 92687-3
- Short code
- G lamblia DNA Stl Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- G lamblia DNA Stl Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- stool
- Container
- Clean container
- 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
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- Specimen volume
- 5 g
- Stability
- Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is ANCA Used For?
ANCA antibodies are linked to a group of rare but serious conditions called vasculitides, which cause inflammation in blood vessels. This test helps doctors identify whether you have one of these conditions, such as Wegener’s granulomatosis or microscopic polyangiitis, by detecting specific antibodies in your blood.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then tested using an immunoassay method to detect the presence of ANCA antibodies. Results are reported as either positive or negative, depending on whether antibodies are found.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained skin rashes, joint pain, kidney problems, or persistent sinus infections. It’s also used to monitor treatment progress in people with known vasculitis.
What Do the Results Mean?
A positive result means ANCA antibodies were detected, which may suggest vasculitis. However, not everyone with vasculitis will test positive, and some people with negative results may still have the condition. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: ANCA antibodies are markers for autoimmune diseases affecting blood vessels. While they don’t diagnose vasculitis definitively, they strongly suggest it and guide treatment decisions. False positives can occur, so further testing or clinical correlation is often needed.
Short name
ANCA Test
Frequently asked questions
What symptoms might lead to this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes affect ANCA test results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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