ANCA Reflex Test

This test is to detect/ diagnose/ monitor some forms of AUTOIMMUNE DISORDER SYSTEMIC VASCULITIS. Systemic vasculitis means inflammation of blood vessels. This test is used to identify whether the chronic pain in digestive tract is due to SYSTEMIC VASCULITIS (i.e. inflammation of blood vessels) or due to ulcer. To identify whether Anti Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies are present in the blood vessels of person having chronic pain in the digestive tract, this test is recommended.

Though no specific preparations required for this test, it is a must to disclose the medicines / medicinal supplements including herbal medicines taken by an individual as it could affect the test results.

The outcome of ANCA tests along with results of other tests such as imaging studies must be interpreted carefully bearing in mind the clinical signs and symptoms of the affected person. The result will help to decide the treatment protocol. After the treatment the test should be conducted periodically to monitor whether the level of presence of ANCA is decreased or increased. This will also help to identify whether the person is actually affected with IBD or with ulcer. Depending upon these factors, the treatment can be given accordingly.

Normally 2 ml serum will be collected by injecting a needle in the vein of the arm of the affected person. The test will be done at the sophisticated laboratory only. At the labs the sample is mixed with indirect fluorescent chemicals. By reacting with this chemical, the anti neutrophil antibody will show their presence and the level of presence.