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

They are often present in patients with RA even before clinical symptoms appear.

Clinical uses include:

Early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

Differentiating RA from other autoimmune or inflammatory joint diseases.

Predicting disease progression and severity.

Supporting treatment decisions and monitoring.

The test is performed using a blood sample, typically alongside Rheumatoid Factor (RF) testing.

Analyte: Anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies in serum.

Normal Range: Negative (no detectable antibodies).

Abnormal Findings:

Positive Anti-CCP: Strongly suggests rheumatoid arthritis, even in early or asymptomatic stages.

Negative Anti-CCP: Does not rule out RA but lowers likelihood; may indicate other causes of joint pain.

Clinical Use:

Provides a highly specific marker for RA diagnosis.

Helps predict erosive joint disease and long-term outcomes.

Guides rheumatologists in tailoring therapy.