Wondering what is anti ccp antibody? It stands for anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody which is the protein secreted as a result of joint inflammation from rheumatoid arthritis. By analyzing the presence of this antibody in the blood, it may be found that the person is suffering from RA or not. This test is the most specific way of diagnosing Rheumatoid arthritis. In more than 98% of the cases, an elevated level of anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody in the blood suggests Rheumatoid arthritis. Indeed, the test is the reliable way to confirm RA. In the year 1998, it was found that patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis or joint inflammation produce antibodies to citrulline.
The utility of the test
The test is vital and helps in the diagnosis of joint diseases, mostly Rheumatoid arthritis. Anti CCP blood test scores much above typical rheumatoid factor test to detect rheumatoid arthritis. You may not know that this antibody has prognostic significance in the realm of RA. If the level of antibody is much higher in the blood, it shows aggressive rheumatoid arthritis. People who show up higher level of antibody are more at a risk of joint ailments and finally joint damage. It is interesting to note that this antibody may be found in elevated levels in the blood years before RA has developed. This antibody plays a pathogenic role in the development of rheumatoid arthritis.
However, it is important to note that negative anti-CCP does not suggest that there is no joint disease. It does not completely rule out the chance of RA. It is however positive in almost 50% of the relatives of patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
What preparation is required for the test?
If you are asked to undergo the test for anti-CCP, not much preparation will be required. You just have to talk to your doctor regarding the medicines you are using already or if you suffer from any medical condition. As per the health condition you already suffer from, the doctor gives the instructions.
Can the test be done in the home?
The lab test for CCP antibody may be done at your home. It is all due to the advancement in medical science and technology that you may take the bun test also in the home. The test is conducted to confirm the joint condition called Rheumatoid Arthritis. It detects antibodies called citrulline in the blood. If the test report is positive, the doctor can ask you to take other tests to confirm it. There may be physical examinations, imaging tests and other blood tests prescribed to you. The normal range of CCP should be below 20u/ml. If this level exceeds, it suggests Rheumatoid Arthritis. Even if you are likely to get RA, you must undergo the test. At times, genetic factors can also lead to RA.
The blood sample will be collected by the lab professional right from your home. This offers great comfort and convenience.
The test is affordable
Anti -cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody test is economical and is priced affordably. The cost is not fixed however. It differs from lab to lab. It may be that your healthcare provider bunches other tests along with it. Thus, the cost of taking this test varies.
BCG vaccine or Bacillus Calmette-Guerin vaccine is administered against tuberculosis. Lab tests, vaccinations can now be facilitated in the home.
Reference links:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anti%E2%80%93citrullinated_protein_antibody
