The binding of proteinase 3 antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (PR3-ANCA) varies in different ELISAs

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The demonstration of proteinase 3 specific antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (PR3-ANCA), and the estimation of antibody values are useful in the diagnosis and management of patients with Wegener's granulomatosis (WG). However, external quality assessment programmes suggest that PR3-ANCA binding varies in different assays. AIM: To demonstrate variations in PR3-ANCA binding in different commercial and in house enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs). METHOD: Binding of a PR3-ANCA standard and 19 sera from patients with WG was compared in eight commercial and in house assays. Binding was expressed in different units depending on the kit. RESULTS: One commercial assay perform..