This test measures levels of rheumatoid factor (RF) antibodies. Rheumatoid factor (RF) is an autoantibody that is produced by the body’s immune system and attacks the body’s own tissue.
The presence of this antibody is indicative of inflammatory and autoimmune activity. It is used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis alongside ACPA (CCP-antibodies).
Read about the rheumatoid factor blood test.
The rheumatoid factor (RF) test is primarily used to help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to help distinguish RA from other forms of arthritis or other conditions that cause similar symptoms.
Diagnosis of RA relies on the clinical picture, i.e. the signs and symptoms of the disease. This can be difficult because some symptoms may not present typically or at all, especially early in the disease. The RF test is one tool among others that can be used to help make a diagnosis when RA is suspected.
Rheumatoid factor is the most common test for rheumatoid arthritis, although it has been supplemented (and sometimes replaced) by the newer CCP antibody (ACPA) test.
A 2012 study concluded that individuals in the general population with elevated rheumatoid factor have up to 26-fold greater long-term risk of rheumatoid arthritis, and up to 32% ten-year absolute risk of rheumatoid arthritis. These novel findings may lead to a revision of guidelines for early referral to a rheumatologist and early arthritis clinics based on rheumatoid factor testing.
The 2010 Rheumatoid Arthritis Classification Criteria from the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) includes cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibody testing alongside rheumatoid factor testing for a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis. The ACR states that CCP antibodies are detected in approximately 50-60% of people with early RA, as early as 3-6 months after the beginning of symptoms.
This test requires a blood draw, which can be done at your local clinic. An accredited lab such as Karolinska, Synlab, or Unilabs will analyse the sample. The first results are usually available within 48h.
What happens next?
The lab sends the results to your personal dashboard, with comments from both a doctor and a nutritionist. If results are abnormal, we recommend seeing a doctor and, if appropriate, booking an appointment with a Nordic Wellth nutrition lifestyle specialist.