Anti-CCP (Anti Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide) Test in Kathmandu

About this test

The anti-CCP test looks for antibodies that the immune system makes against citrullinated proteins — modified proteins found in inflamed joint linings — and it is the most specific blood marker we have for rheumatoid arthritis. When someone comes in with painful, swollen joints in the hands, wrists, or feet, especially with morning stiffness that lasts more than an hour and tends to affect both sides of the body, this is one of the first tests a rheumatologist or physician will request. Its real value lies in how early and how confidently it points to rheumatoid arthritis: anti-CCP antibodies can appear in the blood months or even years before joints become visibly damaged, and a positive result in someone with early arthritis strongly suggests the disease will follow an aggressive, erosive course that benefits from prompt treatment. It is far more specific than rheumatoid factor (RF), which is why the two are almost always ordered together — a patient positive for both has a much higher likelihood of true rheumatoid arthritis than one positive for RF alone. We interpret anti-CCP alongside RF, ESR or CRP for inflammation, a joint examination, and sometimes hand and foot X-rays. A negative result does not completely rule the disease out, since a portion of patients remain "seronegative", and a positive result is read in the context of symptoms rather than in isolation. In Nepal, where joint complaints are common and access to specialist rheumatology care can be limited, an early anti-CCP result helps your doctor distinguish rheumatoid arthritis from other causes of joint pain and start disease-modifying treatment before lasting deformity sets in.

Sample type

Blood (serum)

Preparation

No fasting required. Drink water normally and continue your usual medicines unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Turnaround time

Reports for Anti-CCP (Anti Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide) are typically ready within: Same Day. Reports can be collected at the clinic during opening hours or shared via WhatsApp once they are ready.

Also known as

Other immunology tests we run

These are routinely ordered alongside Anti-CCP (Anti Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide) or as part of the same diagnostic workup.

How to book

WhatsApp is the fastest way — message us with the test name and your preferred time, and we'll confirm a slot the same day. You can also walk into the clinic at Rumba Chowk, Sanobharang any day between 7AM and 8PM, or fill in our online booking form.