Anti-CCP antibodies are highly specific markers for rheumatoid arthritis.

They can appear years before clinical symptoms and are strongly associated with progressive joint damage.

Clinical uses include:

Supporting the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, especially in early or atypical cases.

Differentiating RA from other causes of joint pain and inflammation.

Predicting disease severity and progression.

Often used alongside Rheumatoid Factor (RF) for greater diagnostic accuracy.

The test is performed using a blood sample.

Analyte: Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (Anti-CCP) antibodies in serum.

Normal Range: Negative (< 20 units; varies by lab).

Abnormal Findings:

Positive Anti-CCP: Strongly suggests rheumatoid arthritis, even if RF is negative.

High titers: Associated with more severe and erosive disease.

Clinical Use:

Provides a highly specific marker for RA.

Helps confirm diagnosis in patients with joint pain and suspected autoimmune disease.

Guides prognosis and treatment planning.