RheumAssure Arthritis Blood Test

The RheumAssure Arthritis Blood Test panel contains 3 tests with 3 biomarkers .

RheumAssure Arthritis Blood Test

The RheumAssure Arthritis Blood Test is a specialized diagnostic panel designed to detect and assess autoimmune arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This test measures specific biomarkers that indicate immune system activity against joint tissues, helping to diagnose autoimmune inflammatory conditions early. By identifying key antibodies and proteins associated with arthritis, this test allows healthcare providers to evaluate disease severity, guide treatment plans, and monitor disease progression. Early detection of autoimmune arthritis is critical in preventing joint damage and improving long-term outcomes.

When and Why the RheumAssure Arthritis Blood Test May Be Ordered

Healthcare providers may order the RheumAssure Arthritis Blood Test when a patient presents with symptoms of inflammatory arthritis, such as joint pain, swelling, stiffness, fatigue, and decreased range of motion. It is particularly useful for individuals suspected of having rheumatoid arthritis, especially when clinical symptoms are present but diagnostic confirmation is needed. This test may also be recommended for patients with a family history of autoimmune arthritis or those experiencing unexplained joint discomfort. Additionally, it can be used to monitor disease activity in patients already diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and assess response to treatment.

What the RheumAssure Arthritis Blood Test Checks For

The RheumAssure Arthritis Blood Test evaluates specific biomarkers associated with autoimmune arthritis, providing a detailed assessment of immune system involvement in joint inflammation and destruction.

Rheumatoid Factor (RF)

Rheumatoid factor (RF) is an autoantibody that targets the body’s own tissues, particularly the synovial lining of the joints. Elevated levels of RF are strongly associated with rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions. However, RF can also be present in other inflammatory or infectious diseases. A positive RF test indicates an increased likelihood of autoimmune arthritis and is often used alongside other markers to confirm a diagnosis.

Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (CCP) IgG Antibodies

CCP IgG antibodies are highly specific markers for rheumatoid arthritis and are often present in the early stages of the disease. These antibodies target citrullinated proteins, which are altered versions of normal proteins found in joint tissues. The presence of CCP IgG antibodies suggests an increased risk of developing RA and is useful in predicting disease severity and progression. A positive CCP test, even in the absence of symptoms, may indicate a higher likelihood of future RA development.

14-3-3 ETA Protein

The 14-3-3 ETA protein is a newer biomarker that plays a role in joint inflammation and bone degradation. This protein is released by inflamed joint tissues and has been found to be elevated in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Unlike RF, which can be present in other conditions, the 14-3-3 ETA protein is more specific to RA and provides insight into disease activity and severity. Detecting elevated levels of this protein helps in the early diagnosis of RA and may be useful for monitoring treatment effectiveness.

Conditions and Diseases the RheumAssure Arthritis Blood Test Can Detect

This test is primarily used for diagnosing and assessing autoimmune arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. Identifying these conditions early allows for better disease management and improved patient outcomes.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and potential joint damage. RA occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovial lining of the joints, leading to persistent swelling and eventual joint deformity. The RheumAssure Arthritis Blood Test detects RA by identifying RF, CCP IgG antibodies, and 14-3-3 ETA protein. A combination of these markers provides strong diagnostic evidence for RA, allowing for early intervention and treatment.

Seronegative Rheumatoid Arthritis

Some patients with RA do not test positive for rheumatoid factor but still exhibit symptoms of the disease. This condition is known as seronegative rheumatoid arthritis. In such cases, the presence of CCP antibodies or 14-3-3 ETA protein can confirm the diagnosis. Testing for these markers is particularly valuable in patients with unexplained joint inflammation who test negative for RF.

Other Autoimmune Arthritis Conditions

While the RheumAssure Arthritis Blood Test is primarily used for RA, elevated RF levels can also be found in other autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and mixed connective tissue disease. However, the combination of CCP antibodies and 14-3-3 ETA protein provides more specific evidence for RA rather than these other conditions.

How Healthcare Professionals Use the RheumAssure Arthritis Blood Test in Treatment and Monitoring

Healthcare providers use this test to confirm a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, predict disease progression, and guide treatment strategies.

Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis

If RA is diagnosed based on positive RF, CCP IgG antibodies, or 14-3-3 ETA protein results, healthcare providers may initiate treatment with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) such as methotrexate, biologics, or targeted therapies to slow disease progression. Early treatment helps prevent joint damage and preserves function.

Monitoring Disease Activity in RA Patients

For patients already diagnosed with RA, this test may be used periodically to assess disease activity and treatment response. If biomarkers such as 14-3-3 ETA protein remain elevated despite treatment, therapy adjustments may be needed to achieve better disease control.

Diagnosing and Treating Seronegative RA

In cases where a patient exhibits symptoms of RA but tests negative for RF, CCP IgG and 14-3-3 ETA protein levels can provide critical diagnostic information. Patients with positive results for these markers may still require DMARDs or biologics to manage inflammation and prevent joint damage.

Conclusion

The RheumAssure Arthritis Blood Test is a valuable diagnostic tool for detecting and monitoring autoimmune arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. By measuring rheumatoid factor, CCP IgG antibodies, and 14-3-3 ETA protein, this test provides a comprehensive assessment of immune system activity and joint inflammation. Healthcare providers use this test to confirm RA diagnoses, guide early treatment interventions, and monitor disease progression. Early detection and effective disease management through targeted therapies can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with autoimmune arthritis.