Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic auto antibodies (ANCA) in Pakistani patients with systemic vasculitides.

Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic auto antibodies are directed against antigens in the neutrophil granules. Their detection by the indirect immunofluorescence clearly divides them into two distinct types, namely c-ANCA (Classical antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody) and the p-ANCA (Perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody). These antibodies have been found to be useful as non-invasive markers to help establish the diagnosis in patients with systemic vasculitides. The antibodies also help in monitoring disease activity in some patients with systemic necrotising vasculitides. This study was aimed at demonstrating the utility of these auto-antibodies in the management of our patients presenting with systemic vasculitides. Fifty-six patients presenting with features of systemic vasculitides were examined over a six month period out of whom eight were found positive for these antibodies. The detection of these antibodies helped in early diagnosis and the institution of specific treatment. Six months follow-up in one patient with Wegener's granulomatosis, the disease activity related closely with the ANCA levels.