This laboratory analysis detects the presence and concentration of antibodies against myeloperoxidase (MPO), an enzyme primarily found in neutrophils, a type of white blood cell. Elevated levels can indicate the presence of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV), a group of autoimmune diseases characterized by inflammation and damage to small blood vessels. For example, a positive result might suggest conditions like microscopic polyangiitis or granulomatosis with polyangiitis.
Determining the presence and quantity of these specific antibodies is essential for diagnosing and monitoring AAV. Early and accurate diagnosis facilitates timely intervention, which can help prevent serious complications involving the kidneys, lungs, and other organs. Historically, diagnosing these conditions relied on less specific methods, making this analysis a significant advancement in patient care. It allows clinicians to distinguish AAV from other conditions with similar symptoms, enabling more targeted and effective treatment strategies.
