Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibodies (CCP)

Department of Immunology

Notes

• CCP antibodies are useful for the diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis . They are more specific than Rheumatoid Factor testing but are not diagnostic.
• CCP antibodies may be of prognostic value with respect to the development of radiological joint damage and may be detected before disease onset.
• They are also seen in some children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis.

Sample Requirements

Clotted blood. (No patient preparation or special handling required)

Adult

5ml Gold-top SST tube or 3.5ml Rust-top gel tube (Trust users only)

Paediatric

1ml Serum Sample

Turnaround Times

10 days

Time Limit for Add-ons

3 days

Reference Ranges

Negative <7 U/ml

Equivocal 7-10 U/ml

Positive >10 ml