The CCP antibody test examines CCP (cyclic citrullinated peptide) antibodies in the blood. CCP antibodies, commonly known as anti-CCP antibodies, are a type of antibody known as autoantibodies. Antibodies and autoantibodies are proteins that the immune system generates. Antibodies protect you from disease by attacking substances such as viruses and bacteria. Autoantibodies can cause disease by mistakenly targeting healthy cells in the body.
CCP antibodies affect healthy tissues in the joints. CCP antibodies in the blood indicate rheumatoid arthritis, which causes joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. CCP antibodies are present in more than 75% of persons with rheumatoid arthritis, and they are almost never found in people who do not have the condition.
Other names: Anti Citrullinated peptide antibody, cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody, citrulline antibody, anti-CCP antibody, anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide, ACPA.