[Anti-CCP antibody test: diagnostic and pronostic values in rheumatoid arthritis]

Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune disorder which diagnosis is based on clinical, radiological and biological criteria. Disease progression is characterized by appearance of bone erosions and progressive articular deformations which attenuate functional mobility. Only rheumatoid factor is actually considered as biological factor among recognized diagnostical criteria despite its weak sensibility and specificity rates. Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptides antibodies are directed toward citrullinated isoforms of some filaggrin's epitopes. Their sensitivity and specificity reach respectively 80 and 99%. Their presence is correlated to disease activity and to bone erosions development. They allow early identification and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis affected patients which is actually considered as a priority.