Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies: Current diagnostic and pathophysiological potential (original) (raw)

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) are crucial for diagnosing various vasculitis disorders, particularly those affecting small blood vessels. Different ANCA staining patterns, such as cytoplasmic (c-ANCA) and perinuclear (p-ANCA), provide diagnostic clues and can also be influenced by fixation methods. The paper explores the pathophysiological implications of specific ANCA responses, particularly in relation to myeloperoxidase (MPO), highlighting the complexity in interpreting ANCA results due to overlapping disease mechanisms.