Doctors tested my blood for ANCA antibodies (Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies) when I was showing symptoms of vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels). ANCA antibodies are usually positive in vasculitis and make 2 patterns if positive, C-ANCA or P-ANCA. P-ANCA antibodies have been found in other rheumatic diseases such as Lupus, but C-ANCA is highly specific for Wegener’s, a rare form of vasculitis. When my blood came back positive for C-ANCA and it was clear I did not have Wegener’s, doctors didn’t know what to make of this. The University of Iowa has researchers who specialize in the ANCA antibodies and is where unusual ANCA results are retested.
Dr. Targoff
University of Iowa Lab Description
University of Iowa Lab Requisition Form
Welcome
I have suffered from autoimmune disease since the age of 17 and I have several relatives who are also fighting autoimmune diseases. I have been diagnosed with Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH), Lupus, and the Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS). Family members have been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, Dermatomyositis, Grave’s, Hashimoto’s, Vitiligo, and Type I Diabetes.
In the search for my diagnosis, I have seen doctors in six states, from every medical specialty, seven of whom were Rheumatologists. I had an extremely difficult time finding a doctor to take my symptoms seriously because most of my blood work was normal and I did not look sick. I have a Master’s degree in Aerospace engineering and solve puzzles for a living as a systems analyst. I resorted to reading medical journal articles to try to put my own pieces together when the doctors were finished looking. I ended up being a very complicated case and had the unfortunate luck to end up with the rarest and oddest of symptoms, as if all autoimmune symptoms aren’t bizarre enough! It took me 13 years to finally find a doctor who understood my body.
As a result of my search for a diagnosis, I’ve learned a lot about the immune system, doctors, and the medical system. I’ve been asked by numerous people who have heard my story how did I find out certain facts, or how did I find a certain doctor because they also have a friend who the doctors don’t seem to be able to help? Over time, I’ll post all the knowledge I’ve gained over the years, to give someone else having troubles obtaining that elusive diagnosis some other options to consider when you hit a brick wall.
Email: autoimmunediagnosis@gmail.com
In the search for my diagnosis, I have seen doctors in six states, from every medical specialty, seven of whom were Rheumatologists. I had an extremely difficult time finding a doctor to take my symptoms seriously because most of my blood work was normal and I did not look sick. I have a Master’s degree in Aerospace engineering and solve puzzles for a living as a systems analyst. I resorted to reading medical journal articles to try to put my own pieces together when the doctors were finished looking. I ended up being a very complicated case and had the unfortunate luck to end up with the rarest and oddest of symptoms, as if all autoimmune symptoms aren’t bizarre enough! It took me 13 years to finally find a doctor who understood my body.
As a result of my search for a diagnosis, I’ve learned a lot about the immune system, doctors, and the medical system. I’ve been asked by numerous people who have heard my story how did I find out certain facts, or how did I find a certain doctor because they also have a friend who the doctors don’t seem to be able to help? Over time, I’ll post all the knowledge I’ve gained over the years, to give someone else having troubles obtaining that elusive diagnosis some other options to consider when you hit a brick wall.
Email: autoimmunediagnosis@gmail.com
Medical Disclaimer
This website is for informational purposes only. Readers are encouraged to confirm the information contained herein with other sources. Patients should review the information with their professional health care provider. The information is not intended to replace medical advice offered by physicians. Remember I’m a rocket scientist not a doctor.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
ANCA Antibody Specialty Lab - University of Iowa
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
Hi. I am interested in your blog as I have many health problems (worsening) and at the age of 31, still officially undiagnosed. I was particularly interested in your c-anca as I also have one, but no Wegeners. I live in the UK. I'm not sure if you even still use this blog but if you do, and you did ever learn any more about your c-anca please feel free to contact me: katiekuwaity@hotmail.com
ReplyDelete