What is the CCP value?
In technical terminology, the CCP value stands for antibodies against cyclic citrullinated peptides. Antibodies are special proteins in the human body. CCP-antibodies are thereby erroneously directed against the body’s own connective tissue. In rheumatoid arthritis, the CCP value is therefore often elevated. The CCP value is considered an early marker for rheumatoid arthritis.
Synonyms for the CCP value
The CCP value is also known as CCP-AK. This abbreviation stands for antibodies against cyclic citrullinated peptides. Internationally, the abbreviation ACPA is also commonly used.
Indications for a CCP value determination
The CCP value can be determined if rheumatoid arthritis is suspected. Compared to other rheumatoid factors, it has the advantage that it is often elevated at an early stage, when rheumatoid arthritis is not yet clinically detectable. It also has a high positive predictive value (positive predictive value).
This means that a high CCP value is associated with a high probability of developing rheumatoid arthritis. In approximately 60% – 75% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, the anti-CCP test is positive. The CCP value has the advantage that it is rarely elevated in other diseases compared to the other rheumatoid factors.
Normal value
The standard value is below 7 U/ml (units per milliliter). This value is given in the technical literature. The individual laboratories may have different reference values.
The respective reference values are given with the laboratory findings and should be observed without fail. A strongly increased CCP value can be an indication of a severe inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. The drug therapy should therefore be adjusted by the treating physician.
Do I have to be fasting when taking blood samples?
In order to determine the CCP value, it is not usually necessary to appear sober. However, since often other blood values are determined, one should discuss with the treating physician whether one should appear fasting for the blood collection.
Evaluation of the CCP value
The CCP value is sent to a laboratory by the treating physician. There it is determined by laboratory chemistry and the result is reported to the attending physician. Depending on the laboratory, the measuring methods and reference values may differ. Therefore, the respective reference values and the measuring method are included in the laboratory findings. The attending physician will discuss the laboratory result with his patient at the next appointment.
