Test library
RF Test for Arthritis
This blood test measures rheumatoid factor, an autoantibody associated with rheumatoid arthritis and some other conditions. It is used to help evaluate persistent joint inflammation.
Order Rheumatoid Factor (RA) Test - Arthritis
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Rheumatoid Factor (RA) Test - Arthritis- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $198
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The Rheumatoid Factor Test measures rheumatoid factor, an antibody that the immune system can produce against its own tissues. It is most often ordered when a person has ongoing joint pain, swelling, or stiffness that could reflect rheumatoid arthritis. The result is interpreted with symptoms, imaging, and other laboratory tests rather than on its own.
What this test measures
Rheumatoid factor is an autoantibody, meaning it targets part of the person's own immune system rather than an outside invader. It is found in many people with rheumatoid arthritis, but it can also appear in other autoimmune conditions, chronic infections, and even in some healthy individuals. Because of this, the test contributes to a broader assessment rather than standing alone.
The test measures rheumatoid factor in a blood sample, most commonly the IgM class, and some laboratories also report IgA or IgG forms. Results are given as a quantitative level, often with a reference range or titer. A related test for anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies is frequently ordered at the same time because it is more specific for rheumatoid arthritis.
Clinicians may order this test when joint symptoms last several weeks, when several joints are involved, or when morning stiffness is prominent. It can also be used to monitor a known condition or to help distinguish between types of inflammatory arthritis. A qualified healthcare provider interprets the result with the examination, imaging, and other laboratory findings.
- Rheumatoid factor IgM
- Rheumatoid factor IgA when included
- Rheumatoid factor IgG when included
- Rheumatoid factor titer or quantitative level
- Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies when included
- C-reactive protein when included
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate when included
Why people order this test
- Evaluate persistent joint pain, swelling, or stiffness
- Support the assessment of suspected rheumatoid arthritis
- Add information when several joints are affected
- Help distinguish between different forms of inflammatory arthritis
- Follow a condition a clinician is already monitoring
How to prepare
No fasting is required for this blood test. The sample can be collected at any time of day, and the person should follow the lab's routine instructions for blood draws.
Understanding your results
Results generally return within one to three business days. A positive rheumatoid factor can support further evaluation for rheumatoid arthritis, but it can also occur in other conditions and in some healthy people. A negative result does not rule out disease, so the test is interpreted with the full clinical picture.
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California
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Colorado
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Connecticut
RF Test for Arthritis across Connecticut.
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Florida
RF Test for Arthritis across Florida.
Georgia
RF Test for Arthritis across Georgia.
Hawaii
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Idaho
RF Test for Arthritis across Idaho.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is rheumatoid factor?
Rheumatoid factor is an autoantibody that targets part of the body's own immune system. It is commonly found in people with rheumatoid arthritis but can appear in other situations as well.
Does a positive result mean I have rheumatoid arthritis?
No. A positive result supports further evaluation but is not a diagnosis by itself. Other findings and the clinical examination are needed.
Can rheumatoid factor be negative in rheumatoid arthritis?
Yes. Some people with rheumatoid arthritis do not have a detectable rheumatoid factor, which is why other tests and findings are also considered.
Why is anti-CCP tested alongside rheumatoid factor?
Anti-CCP is more specific for rheumatoid arthritis, so the two tests together can give a clearer picture than either alone.
Can other conditions raise rheumatoid factor?
Yes. Some autoimmune diseases, chronic infections, and other inflammatory conditions can produce a positive result, and some healthy people test positive without disease.
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Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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