Rheumatoid Arthritis - Basic Most Popular

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The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: ANA, ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern IFA, ANA with Reflux

ANA Screen, IFA

The antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is ordered to help screen for autoimmune disorders and is most often used as one of the tests to diagnose systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Also known as: ACPA, Anti-CCP, Anti-citrulline Antibody, Anti-cyclic Citrullinated Peptide, Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (CCP) Antibody IgG, CCP, CCP Antibody, Citrullinated Peptide (CCP) IgG, Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibody, Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide CCP Antibody IgG

Cyclic Citrullinated

Also known as: RF

Rheumatoid Factor

Rheumatoid factor (RF) is a blood test that measures the amount of the RF antibody in the blood. An abnormal result means the test is positive, which means higher levels of rheumatoid factor have been detected in your blood. Most patients with rheumatoid arthritis or Sjogren syndrome have positive RF tests. The higher the level, the more likely one of these conditions is present. Not everyone with higher levels of rheumatoid factor has rheumatoid arthritis or Sjogren syndrome.
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The Rheumatoid Arthritis - Basic panel contains 3 tests with 3 biomarkers.

Brief Description: The Rheumatoid Arthritis - Basic Panel is a targeted diagnostic tool designed to detect key indicators of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other autoimmune conditions. This panel is particularly useful in the early diagnosis and management of rheumatoid arthritis, aiding in distinguishing it from other forms of arthritis and autoimmune diseases.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required

Important: This panel contains ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern #249 which is a Reflex test. If ANA Screen, IFA is positive, then ANA Titer and Pattern will be performed at an additional charge of $24.95

When and Why the Panel May Be Ordered

The Rheumatoid Arthritis - Basic Panel is often ordered when a patient presents with symptoms suggestive of RA, such as joint pain, stiffness (especially morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes), swelling, and the presence of rheumatoid nodules. It may also be ordered when a healthcare provider suspects another autoimmune condition due to overlapping symptoms with RA.

What the Rheumatoid Arthritis - Basic Panel Checks For

This panel includes several key tests:

  • ANA Screen, IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern: Screens for antinuclear antibodies, which are often present in various autoimmune diseases, including RA. A positive result can lead to further testing to specify the type of autoantibodies present.

  • Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (CCP) IgG Antibody: Highly specific to RA, the presence of anti-CCP antibodies suggests a higher likelihood of developing the disease.

  • Rheumatoid Factor: Measures the level of rheumatoid factor, an antibody present in the majority of RA patients, although it can also be seen in other conditions.

Expanding Health Insights with Advanced Panels

Moving beyond the Basic Panel, additional tests offer a broader understanding of RA and related conditions:

  • The Rheumatoid Arthritis - Basic Plus Panel adds markers of inflammation and kidney health, including C-Reactive Protein, Sed Rate, and Uric Acid, providing insights into the systemic nature of RA and potential for gout overlap.

  • The Rheumatoid Arthritis - Advanced Panel includes all tests from the Basic Plus and incorporates a Complete Blood Count and a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel to evaluate overall health and organ function, crucial for understanding the wider impacts of RA and guiding treatment.

  • The Rheumatoid Arthritis - Comprehensive Panel offers the most detailed analysis by further including Rheumatoid Factor IgA and IgG, offering a nuanced view of the disease's antibody profile, essential for complex cases.

Conditions and Diseases Detected

The Basic Panel can detect:

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: Through specific markers like CCP antibodies and rheumatoid factor, indicating an autoimmune attack on joints.

  • Autoimmune Disorders: The presence of ANA antibodies can signal various autoimmune conditions, necessitating further investigation.

Clinical Applications

Healthcare professionals use the results to confirm RA diagnosis, assess disease severity, and monitor treatment effectiveness. Positive results may lead to the prescription of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and lifestyle advice to manage symptoms.

The Rheumatoid Arthritis - Basic Panel serves as a foundational step in diagnosing RA and differentiating it from other joint-related conditions. By identifying specific antibodies associated with RA, this panel aids in the timely initiation of treatment strategies aimed at reducing symptoms and slowing disease progression.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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