What is the Anti CCP Ab test done for & what does it mean if Anti CCP Ab test is positive?

What is the Anti CCP Antibody (ACPA) test for?

Anti CCP antibody test is a test for diagnosing Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

What is the full form of Anti CCP Ab test?

Anti CCP Ab test stands for ‘Anti cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody’ test

What is the procedure of the Anti CCP Ab test?

Anti CCP Ab test is a blood test. One need not be fasting for the test. The blood is processed to measure Anti CCP Antibody levels in your blood. Results are typically available in 48-72 hours.

What does it mean if Anti CCP Ab is positive?

If Anti CCP Ab test is positive, it is very likely that you have/ will develop rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Please consult a rheumatologist if you have a positive report for a definite diagnosis.

What are the other rheumatoid arthritis blood tests?

In addition to the Anti CCP Ab test, the RF (Rheumatoid Factor)  test is also used for diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis.

How is rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed?

Diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis hinges on a combination of symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and positive blood tests like the RF (Rheumatoid Factor) test or Anti-CCP Ab test. If your Rheumatoid Factor/ Anti CCP Ab test is positive, do consult a rheumatologist for a definite diagnosis.

What does a negative Anti CCP Ab test mean?

A negative ACPA test translates into a lower chance of having rheumatoid arthritis. However, a negative test does not rule out the presence of rheumatoid arthritis. One can have a negative Anti CCP Ab despite suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. This is termed as seronegative rheumatoid arthritis.

What happens if the Anti CCP Ab level is high?

A high level of Anti CCP Ab indicates a more severe & aggressive rheumatoid arthritis. 

Do I need to repeat the Anti CCP Ab test?

No. Anti CCP Ab test has a role in diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis. An increasing level of Anti CCP Ab does not mean that rheumatoid arthritis is worsening & a lower Anti CCP Ab level does not mean that rheumatoid arthritis is improving. It does not correlate with rheumatoid arthritis activity & need not be repeated.

Can a blood test confirm rheumatoid arthritis?

While blood tests like the Anti CCP Antibody test , rheumatoid factor test aid in rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis, they’re not standalone confirmatory tests. Diagnosis relies on a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms and laboratory findings. Rheumatologist is the specialist who makes a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

What is the price of the Anti CCP Antibody test?

The cost of an Anti CCP Antibody test is typically around 1600 Rs, but prices may vary depending on the lab.

What is the normal Anti CCP Antibody test level?

A normal Anti CCP Antibody level is typically less than 17 IU/ml. However the cut off may vary from lab to lab.

How to interpret Anti CCP Antibody test results?

Results above the lab’s reference range are considered positive, while results within the reference range are negative.

What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis? When should one get an Anti CCP Ab test?

Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness lasting more than 6 weeks.

If you’ve received a positive Anti CCP Antibody test result or are experiencing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, don’t hesitate to reach out. Schedule a consultation with us today to discuss your concerns and develop a tailored plan for your health and well-being.

• Dr. Aarti Zope,

    Consultant Rheumatologist,

    Dr. Akerkar’s IC4 Mumbai Arthritis Clinic,

    Bhandup

Disclaimer: Contents of this blog are for informational purpose only & is not a substitute for any medical consultation, diagnosis or treatment. Please see a rheumatologist for a definite diagnosis & treatment.