ANCA blood test in Chiswick
The ANCA blood test looks for anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies, which are linked to a group of rare conditions that inflame small blood vessels. It is used when symptoms suggest vasculitis and is always read alongside a clinical assessment.
What the test measures
Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) are autoantibodies directed against proteins inside neutrophils, a type of white blood cell. When present, they can activate neutrophils against the walls of small blood vessels, causing inflammation known as vasculitis. This can affect the kidneys, lungs, sinuses, nerves, skin and joints.
The main conditions associated with ANCA are granulomatosis with polyangiitis, microscopic polyangiitis and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis. These are uncommon, but they can be serious if not recognised, and early treatment makes a real difference. Laboratories usually report the pattern of ANCA and may test for the specific targets, PR3 and MPO, which helps specialists narrow down the type.
The price includes the blood sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request.
Who it is for
- You have ongoing sinus problems, nosebleeds or crusting with other unexplained symptoms.
- Your urine shows blood or protein and your kidney function has changed.
- You have unexplained rashes, joint pains, numbness or weight loss together.
- You have previously had vasculitis and your specialist has asked for monitoring.
- Your GP or practitioner has suggested ANCA as part of an autoimmune work-up.
Understanding your result
A negative result makes ANCA-associated vasculitis less likely but does not rule it out entirely. A positive result needs careful interpretation, because ANCA can also appear with infections, inflammatory bowel disease, some liver conditions and certain medicines. Your report shows how the laboratory has classified the result, and your practitioner will read it alongside your symptoms and other tests.
A positive result is a prompt for discussion and specialist assessment, not a diagnosis. If you are coughing blood, passing very little urine or becoming rapidly unwell, seek urgent medical care rather than booking a test.
Preparing for your test
No fasting is needed and you can test at any time of day. Please tell us about recent infections and any medicines you take, particularly antithyroid drugs, hydralazine or minocycline, as these can occasionally be associated with ANCA.
Vasculitis often affects the kidneys, so our kidney function tests and urinalysis can add important context. You can also view every blood test and price in Chiswick.
Questions
How much is an ANCA test in Chiswick?
The ANCA test costs £99 at Omnia Lifestyle in Chiswick. It covers the blood sample, accredited laboratory analysis, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report if requested.
Is ANCA a general autoimmune screen?
No. It is a focused test for vasculitis. For a broader look at autoimmune conditions such as lupus, the ANA test is more commonly used first.
Can I have vasculitis with a negative ANCA?
Yes. Some forms of vasculitis are ANCA negative, so symptoms and other findings remain important.
Is ANCA used to monitor treatment?
Specialists sometimes track ANCA levels, but decisions about treatment are based mainly on symptoms, kidney function and other tests.
