Unmasking the ‘rods and rings’ antinuclear antibody pattern: a sign of hepatitis C treatment and a risk factor for cerebrovascular disease

This study confirms a strong association between the RR ANA pattern and HCV treatment, while suggesting a potential link to CVD at high ANA titres. RR positivity in HCV-negative patients also suggests other triggers, including beta-blockers. These findings underscore the need for further research into the broader clinical implications of the RR ANA pattern and its association with inflammatory diseases.KEY MESSAGEThe anti-rods and rings (anti-RR) ANA pattern, once considered specific to HCV therapy, can also appear in non-HCV patients.High-titre anti-RR positivity may be associated with an increased risk of cerebrovascular disease.