Description
Why It’s Done
The P-ANCA test is primarily used to help diagnose and monitor certain autoimmune diseases, especially types of vasculitis, including:
• Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA)
• Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA) – formerly Churg-Strauss syndrome
• Ulcerative Colitis
• Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
• Other autoimmune conditions affecting kidneys, lungs, or gastrointestinal tract
Doctors may order this test when a patient presents with symptoms such as:
• Unexplained fever or fatigue
• Respiratory symptoms (cough, shortness of breath)
• Kidney dysfunction (blood in urine, proteinuria)
• Abdominal pain or bowel irregularities
• Skin lesions or joint pain
Preparation for the Test
• Fasting: Not required.
• Medications: Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements, particularly immunosuppressive or anti-inflammatory drugs.
• No special preparation is typically needed.
