Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Factor

Rheumatic arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which autoantibodies are produced which attack joints, causing joint swelling, pain and inflammation. These autoantibodies can be tested for in the blood and are known as rheumatoid factor (RF). It is an IgM protein. While mostly common in rheumatoid arthritis, it can also be present in other autoimmune disorders like Sjogrens syndrome, as well as other infectious diseases caused by parasites and bacteria. This lab test helps in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases.

This lab test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Joint pain
• Joint tenderness, swelling, redness, warmth and stiffness
• Loss of joint range of motion
• Multiple affected joints
• Joint deformity
• Both sides of the body affected (symmetric)
• Loss of joint function

Also Known As: RF Titer, Rheumatoid Factor (RF), RA Latex