ANCA-TUTOR - A PROGRAM THAT TEACHES INTERPRETATION OF AN IMMUNOFLUORESCENCE ASSAY

The microscope-based immunofluorescence assay for anti-neutrophil cyto plasmic antibodies (ANCAs) is used in the evaluation of patients with Wegener's granulomatosis and related forms of vasculitis. We developed an interactive personal computer program, ANCA-Tutor, that introduces users to the assay and examines their understanding of the test. The program, runs under Microsoft Windows and is based on processed digita l images of human neutrophils stained in a standard immunofluorescence test. The images contain descriptive text overlays. The program conta ins a library of reference images and strategies for distinguishing be tween staining patterns.