Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody is an independent risk factor in rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease

•Our study reveals that the presence of ANCA, specifically pANCA, was independently associated with rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease (RA-ILD).•ANCA can reflect the inflammatory status of RA patients and serve as a potential biomarker for RA-ILD, complementing the diagnostic value of existing biomarkers.•RA patients with positive ANCA may require enhanced monitoring and tailored treatment approaches to impede ILD progression. This study aimed to investigate the clinical relevance of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease (RA-ILD). Detailed clinical records of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients who underwent ANCA screening tests were collected. ANCA measurements were determined by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IIF) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Clinical characteristics were compared between ANCA-positive and ANCA-negative groups, and multivariable logistic models were used to evaluate the independent association of ANCA with ILD in RA patients. The prevalence of ANCA by IIF was significantly higher in RA-ILD patients compared to those with RA without ILD (31.7 % vs. 19.5 %, p