What is a rheumatoid factor (RF) test?
A rheumatoid factor (RF) test measures the amount of rheumatoid factor (RF) in your blood. Rheumatoid factors are proteins produced by the immune system. Normally, the immune system attacks disease-causing substances like viruses and bacteria. Rheumatoid factors attack healthy joints, glands, or other normal cells by mistake.
An RF test is most often used to help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of autoimmune disorder that causes pain, swelling, and stiffness of the joints. Rheumatoid factors may also be a sign of other autoimmune disorders, such as juvenile arthritis, certain infections, and some types of cancer.
Other names: RF Blood Test
What is it used for?
An RF test is used to help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune disorders.
Why do I need an RF test?
You may need an RF test if you have symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. These include:
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Joint pain
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Joint stiffness, especially in the morning
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Joint swelling
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Fatigue
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Low-grade fever
What happens during an RF test?
A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes. At SOUTH PUNJAB LAB this test is done by COADATA.
What do the results mean?
If rheumatoid factor is found in your blood, it may indicate:
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Rheumatoid arthritis
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Another autoimmune disease, such as lupus, Sjogren’s syndrome, juvenile arthritis, or scleroderma
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An infection, such as mononucleosis or tuberculosis
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Certain cancers, such as leukemia or multiple myeloma