Anti-MPO antibodies

Anti-MPO antibodies are immune proteins that mistakenly target myeloperoxidase, an enzyme in certain white blood cells involved in fighting infections. In some autoimmune diseases, like microscopic polyangiitis, these antibodies attack the body's own small blood vessels, causing inflammation and damage. The presence of anti-MPO antibodies helps doctors diagnose and monitor these conditions. They are part of the body's immune response gone awry, leading to tissue injury rather than protection. Detecting these antibodies involves blood tests, and their levels can guide treatment decisions to manage inflammation and prevent organ damage.