Anti-CCP Antibody

An Anti-CCP Antibody test diagnoses rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and differentiates it from other types of arthritis. It detects the presence of anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (Anti-CCP) antibodies in the blood, which are associated with autoimmune diseases, particularly rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and are often present in the early stages of the disease.

Rheumatoid arthritis, also known as RA, is an autoimmune (a condition in which the body's natural defense system mistakenly attacks normal/healthy cells) and an inflammatory condition that causes inflammation (painful swelling) of the joints. In addition to the joints, RA sometimes also affects other body parts, including skin, eyes, lungs, or heart. 

An Anti-CCP Antibody test helps in the early detection of RA by measuring the presence and levels of antibodies called anti-CCP (anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide) in the blood. The immune system produces these antibodies in response to the citrullinated peptides present in the joints of individuals with RA. Anti-CCP antibodies are particular to RA, and their presence can be detected even before the symptoms manifest.

According to some studies, more than 75% of people with rheumatoid arthritis test positive for CCP antibodies. Hence, this test can distinguish rheumatoid arthritis from other types of arthritis or conditions with similar symptoms, such as psoriatic arthritis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and is more specific than other traditional tests, such as the Rheumatoid Factor-Quantitative test.

Your doctor may recommend an Anti-CCP Antibody test if you show signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as pain, warmth, swelling, morning stiffness in the joints, nodules under the skin, etc. A positive result indicates the presence of anti-CCP antibodies, suggesting a higher likelihood of rheumatoid arthritis. In contrast, a negative result doesn't completely rule out RA; it may indicate a lower probability, especially when combined with clinical and other laboratory findings. 

Usually, no special preparation is required for this test; you can eat and drink as per your daily routine. The test results may vary depending on age, gender, health history, and other risk factors. Narrate your complete medical history to help the doctor correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. This will help them determine your medical condition, make recommendations for diet, physical activity, and medication if needed, and manage your condition by formulating your overall treatment plan.