How far you can trust c-ANCA?

BMJ Case Rep. 2013 Mar 1:2013:bcr2013008555. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2013-008555.

Abstract

The suspicion of a serious condition arises if a smoker is coughing and losing weight constantly. Serology and imaging are great options for diagnosis, but what is their specificity? A 62-year-old man presented with persistent cough, weight loss and hypoxia. A chest x-ray revealed bilateral interstitial infiltrates. Treatment with several antibiotics failed. Serological results showed antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (c-ANCA) positivity. However, biopsy result indicated cryptogenic organising pneumonia. This case report discloses the differential diagnosis of c-ANCA positive interstitial lung disease in detail.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic / blood*
  • Biopsy
  • Cough
  • Cryptogenic Organizing Pneumonia / diagnosis*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Hypoxia
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiography, Thoracic
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Weight Loss

Substances

  • Antibodies, Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic