Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Autoantibodies

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Abstract
To the Editor: We commend Drs. Falk and Jennette (June 23 issue)1 for their important observation that at least two types of antibodies against neutrophil components may be present in the serum of patients with various forms of systemic vasculitis. However, on the basis of previous reports2 3 4 5 6 7 8 and our own experience9 with autoantibodies against cytoplasmic components of neutrophils and monocytes (ACPA), also called anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies by some investigators,5 , 10 we do not agree with the conclusions drawn by Falk and Jennette. The antibodies described in previous publications2 3 4 5 6 7 8 cause a characteristic staining pattern of fine granular, centrally accentuated immunofluorescence in the . . .