Tests for autoimmune diseases (ANA, Anti-TPO, Anti-CCP)
Autoimmune diseases are a group of conditions in which the body's immune system attacks its own healthy cells and tissues, mistaking them for pathogens. Early and accurate diagnosis of these diseases is crucial for effective management and improving patients' quality of life.
At Elytis, we offer a full range of tests for autoimmune diseases, including the measurement of specific antibodies such as ANA, anti-TPO and anti-CCP.
In this article, we will explore in detail these tests, their indications and the valuable information they provide.
What are autoimmune diseases?
Autoimmune diseases affect millions of people worldwide and can involve various organs and body systems. The immune system, which normally protects the body against infections and other pathogens, becomes overactive and starts attacking its own cells and tissues.
The exact causes of autoimmune diseases are not fully understood, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors are thought to play an important role.
Testing for autoimmune diseases: antibodies measured
The diagnosis of autoimmune diseases is based on a combination of clinical symptoms, the patient's medical history and the results of laboratory tests. Measurement of specific antibodies is essential to identify the presence and type of autoimmune disease. The most common tests include:
- Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA): the ANA test detects the presence of antibodies that attack the nuclei of cells. A positive ANA test result can indicate a variety of autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), scleroderma and Sjögren's syndrome.
- Anti-thyroid peroxidase (Anti-TPO) antibodies: anti-TPO antibodies attack the thyroid enzyme thyroid peroxidase, which plays a crucial role in the production of thyroid hormones. A high level of anti-TPO antibodies is often associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid gland.
- Anti-cyclic citrullinated citrullinated peptide (Anti-CCP) antibodies: anti-CCP antibodies are highly specific for rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that affects the joints. Detection of anti-CCP antibodies can help in the early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and differentiate it from other forms of arthritis.
When are tests for autoimmune diseases indicated?
Testing for autoimmune diseases is indicated in the following situations:
- Suspicion of autoimmune disease: symptoms of autoimmune diseases can be varied and non-specific, including fatigue, joint pain, rash and fever. If your doctor suspects autoimmune disease, he or she will recommend laboratory tests to confirm the diagnosis.
- Diagnosis of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: Hashimoto's Thyroiditis is a common autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid gland. Measurement of anti-TPO antibodies is essential for diagnosing this condition.
- Diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis: rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints, causing pain, swelling and stiffness. The anti-CCP test is an important tool for early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.
- Autoimmune disease monitoring: patients with diagnosed autoimmune diseases require regular monitoring to assess disease activity and treatment effectiveness. Laboratory tests, including measurement of antibodies, are used to monitor disease progression and adjust treatment if necessary.
What information do tests for autoimmune diseases provide?
Testing for autoimmune diseases provides valuable information about:
- Presence of antibodies: detection of specific antibodies can confirm the diagnosis of an autoimmune disease and help differentiate it from other conditions.
- Antibody levels: measuring antibody levels can provide information about disease activity and response to treatment.
- Disease prognosis: in some cases, antibody levels may be associated with disease prognosis and risk of complications.
Elytis Laboratory Services
The Elytis Medical Network has its own testing laboratory and collection points, providing patients with easy access to testing for autoimmune diseases and other investigations. Our laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment with top specifications from prestigious companies in the field. Elytis also collaborates with other medical laboratories in order to offer the widest possible range of medical analysis at high quality standards.
At Elytis, over 550 of the most complex laboratory tests, analysis and investigations can be carried out, offering safety and confidence to patients through the accuracy of the results and the speed of their release. Medical tests can be carried out free of charge on the basis of a referral note from family doctors and specialists in a contractual relationship with the Health Insurance House, within the limits of the funds allocated. Uninsured patients or those who do not have a referral note may request tests at a charge.
Conclusion
Tests for autoimmune diseases are essential tools for diagnosing and monitoring these complex conditions. At Elytis, we are committed to providing high-quality laboratory services with accurate and rapid results to support patients in the management of autoimmune diseases.
Latest revision:
13.02.2025, Laura Țăranu, laboratory coordinator