ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody, IgG : 0050811

Mnemonic: ANCA IFA

Methodology: Semi-Quantitative Indirect Fluorescent Antibody
Performed: Mon-Sat
Reported: 2-5 days
Specimen Required: Collect: Serum separator tube.

Specimen Preparation: Separate serum from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer 1 mL serum to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube. (Min: 0.15 mL)

Storage/Transport Temperature: Refrigerated.

Unacceptable Conditions: Plasma, urine, or other body fluids. Contaminated, hemolyzed, or severely lipemic specimens.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): After separation from cells: Ambient: 48 hours; Refrigerated: 2 weeks; Frozen: 1 year (avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles)
Reference Interval:
< 1:20: Not significant
Interpretive Data: Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies (C-ANCA = granular cytoplasmic staining, P-ANCA = perinuclear staining) are found in the serum of over 90% of patients with certain necrotizing systemic vasculitides, and usually in less than 5% of patients with collagen vascular disease or arthritis.


                                                             
Note: If the ANCA screen detects antibodies at a 1:20 dilution or greater, then a titer to end point will be added. Additional charges apply. ANCA IFA is simultaneously tested on ethanol- and formalin-fixed slides to allow differentiation of C- and P-ANCA patterns.
CPT Code(s): 86255; if positive, add 86256
Cross References: ANCA (Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody, IgG), Wegner's Granulomatosis (Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody, IgG)