Anti CCP Antibody Test

Anti Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (ACCP) blood test is commonly used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis, an auto-immune disease. The test measures the levels of auto antibodies called CCPs which are found in people who have rheumatoid arthritis. 

ANTIBODIES VS AUTOANTIBODIES:

Antibodies and autoantibodies are proteins made by the immune system. Antibodies help prevent disease by fighting against foreign substances like bacteria and viruses whereas Auto antibodies target and attack the healthy tissues of the body and cause the disease. These CCP antibodies confirm the presence of rheumatoid arthritis and help in identifying its severity for recommending the best possible treatment. 

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

In ACCP test, the results are measured in EU/ml (enzyme units per milliliter). At 20 u/ml, it is considered positive for rheumatoid arthritis. However, this test is prescribed along with or after the RF (rheumatoid factor) test. 

• Positive CCP antibodies and Positive RF show a high possibility of having Rheumatoid arthritis.
• Positive CCP antibodies and Negative RF show early-stage chances of developing the disease in the future.
• Negative CCP antibodies and negative RF means low chances of having the disease.

WHEN IS THE ACCP TEST RECOMMENDED?

A healthcare provider may recommend the ACCP blood test if he/she suspects the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in a person such as,

• Joint stiffness especially in the mornings and after long periods of inactivity
• Painful swollen joints in hands and wrists
• Fatigue 
• Fever
• loss of appetite
• Occasional pain in elbows, shoulders, knees, hips and feet
• A general feeling of discomfort.

Thus, if a person develops the above-said symptoms, he/she may be recommended to get tested for the same. This test so far has been proven effective in detecting rheumatoid arthritis and would help in determining the progression of the disease.