The cytoplasmic pattern (cANCA) is associated with PR3 antibodies and the perinuclear pattern (pANCA) is associated with MPO antibodies. Another possible pattern is atypical ANCA. Myeloperoxidase antibodies and proteinase 3 (PR3) antibodies may be individually and specifically tested using an immunoassay method.
To help detect, aid in the diagnosis of, and sometimes monitor certain forms of the autoimmune disorder systemic vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels)
To help distinguish between Crohn disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), the two most common types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD); as an adjunct to other IBD testing
Positive ANCA, PR3, and/or MPO tests help to support a diagnosis of systemic autoimmune vasculitis and to distinguish between different types. Negative ANCA tests results mean it is unlikely that a person’s symptoms are due to an autoimmune vasculitis.
