ANCA Meaning and
Definition
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ANCA is an acronym that stands for Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody. It refers to a type of antibody that is often found in the blood of individuals affected by autoimmune conditions, specifically those where small blood vessels become inflamed, causing damage to various organs and tissues. ANCA antibodies target and attack neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell involved in immune responses.
The presence of ANCA can be detected through laboratory tests, particularly via a method called indirect immunofluorescence. Upon examination, the antibodies are found within the cytoplasm of neutrophils or attached to their nucleus. The detection of ANCA is crucial in diagnosing certain autoimmune conditions, most notably Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis, Microscopic Polyangiitis, and Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis. These conditions are characterized by systemic vasculitis, where blood vessels in various organs become inflamed and damaged.
The emergence of ANCA in the bloodstream indicates an abnormal immune response, where the body mistakenly recognizes its own tissues as foreign and launches an attack against them. This excessive immune response leads to inflammation and damage in affected organs, resulting in a wide range of clinical symptoms.
In summary, ANCA is an acronym that represents Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody, a type of antibody found in the blood that targets neutrophils and is associated with autoimmune conditions characterized by systemic vasculitis. Its detection plays a crucial role in diagnosing these conditions, enabling timely medical intervention.
Common Misspellings for ANCA
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