Anti-neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody (ANCA)

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) are a type of antibody produced by the immune system that mistakenly targets and attacks neutrophils, a type of white blood cell important for fighting infections. The presence of ANCA is often associated with certain autoimmune diseases, such as vasculitis, where blood vessels become inflamed and damaged. Testing for ANCA can help doctors diagnose these conditions. While ANCA itself is not a disease, it serves as a marker indicating that the body's immune response may be misdirected, leading to potential health issues that require medical attention.