Rheumatoid Factor RA Serum Test Overview

Rheumatoid factor is an antibody produced by the immune system. However, unlike typical antibodies that defend against infections and harmful germs, rheumatoid factors can mistakenly attack your body’s healthy tissues. Healthcare conducts the rheumatoid factor RA serum test, which can assist in diagnosing autoimmune conditions, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. Normally, the immune system generates antibodies to safeguard the body. These specialized proteins function like a security team, identifying and neutralizing invaders such as germs, allergens, or toxins. The RA serum test is a type of blood test that doctors use to determine how much rheumatoid factor is present in your blood. An RF test alone cannot diagnose or confirm any medical issues. However, it can assist your provider in ruling out specific conditions or narrowing down a diagnosis.

Why is Rheumatoid Factor RA Serum Test Prescribed?

Rheumatoid factor (RF) testing is typically done alongside other tests to help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is a chronic autoimmune condition that primarily targets the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. Over time, it can also impact various organs and cause a range of additional symptoms.

In some cases, RF testing may help assess the potential severity of rheumatoid arthritis and whether it might involve organ complications. However, an RF test on its own is not enough to confirm a diagnosis.

Components of Rheumatoid Factor RA Serum Test

Rheumatoid factor is usually measured by determining the number of units present per milliliter of blood. A normal or healthy level is considered to be less than 20 units per milliliter (U/mL).

Your healthcare provider might describe your test result as either negative or positive. A negative result means your RF levels are within the normal range, while a positive result indicates elevated levels of rheumatoid factor in your blood. If the report comes positive, then there is a high chance of chronic infection.

Procedure and Perquisites of Rheumatoid Factor RA Serum

During the RA serum test, the healthcare professional would take a blood sample from your vein. The entire process is similar to other tests conducted. In some cases, the healthcare professional would ask you to conduct the test at home using the finger-prick kit. You can then send your blood sample to the diagnostic lab.

FAQs

1) Is there any risk involved during the test?

Ans: There is no such risk involved during the test. However, there can be slight pain during the procedure due to needle insertion.

2) What does the High Rheumatoid factor result mean?

Ans: An elevated rheumatoid factor may suggest the presence of an autoimmune condition or another underlying health issue. However, the test alone cannot confirm a specific diagnosis, and having high RF levels doesn’t automatically mean you have rheumatoid arthritis.

3) How much should be the normal range of the RA Test?

Ans: The usual range for a RA test is often less than 14 IU/mL. A result below this level is typically considered as negative or normal, implying that rheumatoid factor levels are under control.

RHEUMATOID FACTOR (RA), SERUM in Trivandrum

RHEUMATOID FACTOR (RA), SERUM in Trivandrum

R0028

Daily

No Special Preparation Required

24 Hours

₹495

Parameters

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