Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies in juvenile chronic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

ABSTRACT

To assess the incidence and clinical significance of ANCA in RA and JCA patients, and to study the relation between ANCA and granulocyte specific ANA. Serum antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies were determined with indirect immunofluoresescent [IIF] technique in 20 RA and 12 JCA patients. ANCA was detected in sera from 10 RA patients [50%] and their titer ranged from 110-350 and JCA patients [25%], their titer ranged from 70-230. ANCA titer was not correlated with RF, disease duration and the presence of ANA. p-ANCA were found in 25% RA patients and 8% of JCA patients, c- ANCA were seen in 25% of RA patients and 17% of JCA patients. The laboratory and histologically proven nephropathy were seen in 25% of RA patients 8% of JCA patients, they were associated with p- ANCA. We concluded that early diagnosis of ANCA associated vasculitides is a key to prevent renal failure, and to measure the serum ANCA titer not only for the diagnosis the clinical course, but also to early treatment of renal affection