The cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibody test detects autoantibodies associated with rheumatoid arthritis. This blood test helps confirm an RA diagnosis and provides information about the likelihood of aggressive disease.
What Does the CCP Antibody Test Detect?
This test looks for IgG antibodies against cyclic citrullinated peptides. Citrulline is an amino acid created when the enzyme peptidylarginine deaminase (PAD) converts arginine residues in proteins. This process of citrullination is thought to play a role in the immune system’s attack on joints in rheumatoid arthritis. Around 60-80% of RA patients have anti-CCP antibodies, compared to less than 1% of people without RA.
Levels of anti-CCP tend to correspond with disease severity. Titer levels can also be tracked over time to monitor the progression of rheumatoid arthritis.
Who Should Get CCP Antibody Testing?
The CCP antibody test is primarily used to evaluate individuals with signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as:
- Joint pain, swelling and stiffness
- Fatigue, fever, weight loss
- Nodules under the skin
It may be ordered along with other RA lab tests like rheumatoid factor, CRP, and ESR. The CCP test is more specific for RA than rheumatoid factor testing.
What is Required for the CCP Antibody Test?
No special preparation is needed prior to having your blood drawn. Anti-CCP levels are not impacted by fasting, medication use, diet, or time of day.
Blood is typically collected through venipuncture of your arm. Results are usually available within 1-3 days after testing.
Interpreting Test Results
A negative or normal result is below 20 U/mL. This makes rheumatoid arthritis unlikely, but does not completely rule it out.
A positive CCP test is anything above 20 U/mL. The higher the levels, the more likely rheumatoid arthritis is present. Positive results are categorized as:
- Weak positive: 20-39 U/mL
- Moderate positive: 40-59 U/mL
- Strong positive: 60 U/mL or higher
Your doctor will consider your symptoms and other lab results along with your CCP levels to make a diagnosis. A positive CCP may lead to starting DMARD medications early to treat RA aggressively.
Accessing CCP Antibody Testing Near Me
CCP antibody testing requires a simple blood draw. Our extensive network offers access to lab testing at thousands of locations nationwide. Order your test online and get same-day CCP antibody testing near your home or work. We partner with top national labs like Quest Diagnostics to make high-quality testing affordable and convenient.
Tests Included:
Estimated Turn Around For Results:
2-10 Business Days
For an exact turnaround time for results, please contact us at Personalabs and we will contact the lab on your behalf as turnaround times vary depending on testing location or lab testing provider.
