PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies (ANCAs) are considered important diagnostic tests in the work-up of @entity1 suspected of @entity1333 . Here we discuss new developments in the methodology of testing, the pitfalls in using these tests as diagnostic tools, and the value of serial ANCA testing for the follow-up of @entity1 with @entity19417 including treatment decisions. RECENT FINDINGS: Both the indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) test and antigen-specific assays should be performed. New methodologies include automated reading in the IIF test and third-generation assays (anchor ELISA and bead-based multiplex assay) for the antigenic-specific assays. ANCA testing should be done in the right clinical context as positive results for @entity7134 -ANCA and MPO-ANCA do occur in other conditions than @entity1333 as well. These ANCAs develop in about 10% of @entity1 with @entity884 . The occurrence of drug-induced ANCA and ANCA, also directed against elastase, following use of @entity7305 -adulterated @entity2072 should be recognized. In the right clinical context, ANCA are highly sensitive and specific for their associated disease. The value of serial ANCA testing for the follow-up of @entity1 with @entity19417 is still under discussion but may be relevant in @entity1 with renal involvement and in @entity1 treated with rituximab. SUMMARY: The techniques for ANCA testing improve further but new tests should be standardized and validated. Their diagnostic value in the right clinical context is undisputed. Their value for the follow-up of @entity1 is still under discussion.

Usefulness of antineutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibodies in diagnosing and managing systemic XXXX .

@entity1 :: ('9606', 'Species') :: ['patients'] @entity1333 :: ('MESH:D014657', 'Disease') :: ['vasculitis'] @entity7305 :: ('MESH:D007978', 'Chemical') :: ['levamisole'] @entity2072 :: ('MESH:D003042', 'Chemical') :: ['cocaine'] @entity7134 :: ('5657', 'Gene') :: ['PR3'] @entity19417 :: ('MESH:D056648', 'Disease') :: ['ANCA-associated vasculitis'] @entity884 :: ('MESH:D004696', 'Disease') :: ['infective endocarditis']
@entity1333 :: (MESH:D014657,Disease) :: ['vasculitis']
