Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No special preparation is required.
- Turnaround: 2-3 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
What This Test Measures
This test measures Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (CCP) antibodies, IgG, in your blood. CCP antibodies are autoantibodies, meaning they are produced by your immune system but mistakenly target your body's own healthy cells and tissues instead of foreign invaders like bacteria or viruses.
The test detects the presence of these IgG antibodies in a blood sample. CCP antibodies are found in most individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), though they can also appear in other autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome and lupus, as well as in tuberculosis and chronic lung disease. A result showing CCP antibodies is one piece of information a healthcare provider may use when evaluating symptoms associated with RA.
Note: Results may vary by laboratory. Labcorp is the only laboratory that measures for both IgA and IgG. Please refer to the sample report for additional details
Benefits
- Detects CCP IgG antibodies associated with rheumatoid arthritis
- Simple blood draw with no special preparation needed
- Results available in 2-3 days under normal conditions
- Provides information relevant to autoimmune symptom evaluation
- Supports discussions with your healthcare provider about joint symptoms
Who Is This Test For?
- Adults experiencing joint pain, swelling, or stiffness
- Adults with unexplained fatigue alongside joint symptoms
- Adults with fever, rash, or loss of appetite of unclear origin
- Adults with unexplained weight loss and muscle pain
- Adults wanting bloodwork related to possible autoimmune symptoms
- Adults working with a healthcare provider on RA related symptoms
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this test?
This test identifies Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (CCP) antibodies, IgG, in your blood. It helps a healthcare provider evaluate symptoms that may be associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), since these antibodies are detected in most individuals with RA. This test does not diagnose RA or any other condition on its own; it provides one piece of information for your provider to consider alongside your symptoms and medical history.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
Adults experiencing joint pain, swelling, stiffness, fatigue, fever, rash, loss of appetite, weight loss, or muscle pain may benefit from this test. It may also be useful for adults who want bloodwork to discuss with a healthcare provider regarding possible autoimmune related symptoms. This test is intended to support, not replace, a broader clinical evaluation.
3. When should I order this test?
You may consider ordering this test if you are experiencing symptoms such as joint pain and swelling, stiffness, fatigue, fever, rash, loss of appetite, weight loss, or muscle pain. These symptoms are commonly associated with rheumatoid arthritis. This test can provide information to discuss with a healthcare provider as part of evaluating these symptoms.
4. What does this test measure?
This test measures Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (CCP) antibodies, IgG, using a blood sample. CCP antibodies are autoantibodies that mistakenly target your body's own tissues rather than foreign substances. The test detects these specific IgG antibodies in your blood; it does not measure other antibody types, biomarkers, or provide a broader autoimmune profile beyond what is listed.
5. Do I need to fast before this test?
No special preparation is required for this test.
6. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 2-3 days. Results may take longer based on weather, holidays, or other lab delays.
7. How do I interpret the results?
Interpreting your CCP antibody, IgG results depend on your individual symptoms, medical history, medications, and other laboratory findings. A positive result does not automatically confirm rheumatoid arthritis, since CCP antibodies can also appear in other autoimmune conditions or in tuberculosis and chronic lung disease. A negative result does not rule out RA or another condition. Always discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider for full interpretation in the context of your health.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
8. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
If your results fall outside the expected range, review them with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help interpret the findings in the context of your symptoms, medical history, and other test results. Additional evaluation or testing may be considered if recommended by your healthcare provider.
9. How often should I get tested?
There is no set testing schedule for this test. How often you should be tested depends on your individual health situation and should be determined as directed by your healthcare provider.
Pre test preparation
No special preparation is required.