The ANCA (Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies) Blood Test detects antibodies linked to autoimmune vasculitisand other inflammatory conditions. It plays a key role in diagnosing and monitoring diseases that cause blood vessel inflammation. Testing is performed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory, with an optional GP consultation.

What is an ANCA Blood Test?

Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies (ANCA) are autoantibodies directed against proteins inside neutrophils, a type of white blood cell. When present, these antibodies can trigger inflammation and damage to small and medium-sized blood vessels, a condition known as vasculitis.

The ANCA test typically identifies two main patterns:

• c-ANCA (cytoplasmic pattern) – often associated with granulomatosis with polyangiitis
• p-ANCA (perinuclear pattern) – associated with microscopic polyangiitis, eosinophilic granulomatosis, and other inflammatory conditions

ANCA testing is essential in distinguishing autoimmune vasculitis from infections or other inflammatory diseases.

At London Blood Tests, ANCA is analysed using indirect immunofluorescence and confirmatory assays following UK immunology standards.

Benefits of the ANCA Test

1. Key Diagnostic Marker for Vasculitis
   Helps identify immune-mediated blood vessel inflammation.
2. Differentiates Autoimmune From Infectious Causes
   Guides appropriate treatment decisions.
3. Supports Early Diagnosis
   Early detection reduces risk of organ damage.
4. Useful in Monitoring Disease Activity
   Assists in tracking relapse or treatment response.
5. Aids Renal & Lung Disease Investigation
   Important in unexplained kidney or respiratory symptoms.
6. Non-Invasive & Accurate
   Simple blood test with high diagnostic value.
7. Optional GP Consultation for Interpretation
   Results reviewed with a GP for next-step guidance.

Why Do I Need an ANCA Blood Test?

You may benefit from ANCA testing if you have symptoms suggestive of systemic vasculitis or autoimmune inflammation, such as:

• Persistent fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Joint or muscle pain
• Skin rashes or ulcers
• Chronic sinus issues or nosebleeds
• Coughing up blood
• Shortness of breath
• Blood or protein in urine

Testing is commonly requested when:

• Vasculitis is suspected
• Kidney function deteriorates without clear cause
• Lung and ENT symptoms occur together
• Other autoimmune tests are inconclusive

Because vasculitis can progress rapidly, early testing supports timely treatment and prevention of organ damage.

 How the Test Works

In-Clinic Testing at London Blood Tests

1. Book Your Appointment
• Online or phone booking
• No fasting required
2. Pre-Test Review
• Inform the clinician of symptoms and current medications.
3. Sample Collection
• Venous blood sample collected by a trained phlebotomist
• Takes 5–10 minutes
4. Laboratory Analysis
• ANCA analysed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory
5. Quality Control
• Results verified before release
6. Results Delivery
• Results typically available within 5–7 business days
7. Optional GP Consultation
• Review findings and discuss referral if required

At-Home Blood Draw (Home or Hotel Phlebotomy – UK-Wide)

1. Book a Phlebotomist Visit
• Convenient home or hotel blood draw
2. Professional Sample Collection
• Sample taken safely and discreetly
3. Secure Transport
• Sample couriered same day
4. Laboratory Testing
• Same analysis as clinic testing
5. Results & Follow-Up
• Online results, GP review optional

Your ANCA Test Results – Explained

Results are reported as positive or negative, with pattern identification where applicable.

Interpretation:

• c-ANCA positive: strongly associated with granulomatosis with polyangiitis
• p-ANCA positive: seen in microscopic polyangiitis, eosinophilic granulomatosis, and some autoimmune or gastrointestinal conditions
• Negative ANCA: vasculitis less likely, but not fully excluded

Important notes:

• ANCA results must be interpreted with clinical symptoms, imaging, and other blood tests
• A positive result does not confirm diagnosis alone
• Specialist referral may be required for confirmation