Anti-CCP Blood Test
An anti-CCP test measures antibodies that can be found in certain autoimmune conditions affecting the joints. It is often requested when symptoms such as persistent joint stiffness, swelling or discomfort raise the possibility of an inflammatory joint condition. Anti-CCP is usually checked alongside rheumatoid factor (RF), inflammatory markers and a full clinical assessment.
What the Anti-CCP Test Measures
The anti-CCP test measures:
- Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies, which can appear when the immune system becomes active against citrullinated proteins in the body.
A positive or raised anti-CCP does not diagnose any condition on its own.
Results are interpreted alongside symptoms, examination findings and other blood markers.
Why Anti-CCP Is Used
A GP or clinician may arrange an anti-CCP test to explore:
- Ongoing joint stiffness
- Persistent joint discomfort
- Swelling or reduced mobility
- Unexplained hand or foot stiffness
- Symptoms that last longer than expected after injury or illness
- The possibility of an autoimmune joint condition
- Earlier identification of inflammatory patterns when symptoms are unclear
Anti-CCP is helpful as part of a wider assessment rather than as a standalone marker.
Common Reasons to Have an Anti-CCP Test
This test may be recommended if you have:
- Morning joint stiffness
- Swollen joints
- Difficulty with grip or fine movements
- Symptoms affecting both sides of the body (for example hands or wrists)
- Raised ESR or CRP
- Positive rheumatoid factor
- Persistent joint symptoms without a clear cause
Anti-CCP testing is almost always combined with other blood markers and clinical assessment, as antibody patterns alone cannot confirm or rule out any specific condition.
Understanding Anti-CCP Patterns
Positive or raised Anti-CCP
May indicate an increased likelihood of autoimmune joint inflammation, particularly when symptoms are present and other markers support this. Further assessment is usually recommended.
Negative Anti-CCP
A negative result does not rule out inflammatory joint issues. Symptoms may still require review if they persist.
Borderline results
Can occur early in symptom patterns or during fluctuations. Repeat testing or further assessment may be advised depending on symptoms.
Anti-CCP is always interpreted with a full clinical picture, not in isolation.
How the Test Is Performed
A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. No fasting is required. Results typically return within 2 to 4 days, depending on the laboratory.
When to Discuss Anti-CCP Results with a GP
Speak to a GP if:
- Your results fall outside the reference range
- You have ongoing joint stiffness or swelling
- You have raised inflammatory markers (ESR or CRP)
- You are unsure whether a repeat test is needed
- Your symptoms are affecting movement or daily activities
- You have a family history of autoimmune joint conditions
A GP can review symptoms, examination findings and blood markers to decide if further tests or specialist review are appropriate.
Related Tests
Anti-CCP is often reviewed alongside:
- Full blood count
- ESR
- Vitamin D
- Rheumatoid factor
- Thyroid function tests
For a wider overview of routine blood markers, you can visit our main Blood Tests section in the Knowledge Base.
If you would like to discuss your Anti-CCP results, joint symptoms or inflammatory markers, you can book an online GP appointment with AccessGP.
Last reviewed by Dr Zamiel Hussain, GMC registered GP
Updated: 8 December 2025