Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood serum
- Fasting: Not required
- Turnaround: 8-12 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
What This Test Measures
The RheumAssure Arthritis Blood Test includes three components: Rheumatoid Arthritis Factor (RF), CCP Antibodies (IgG/IgA), and the 14.3.3 ETA protein marker. RF detects rheumatoid factor autoantibodies associated with RA and other autoimmune conditions. CCP Antibodies (IgG and IgA classes) are measured separately from RF and offer higher specificity for RA. The 14.3.3 ETA marker is reported as a quantitative result and reflects active inflammation, distinct from either antibody measurement.
These three results are reported individually and are not combined into a single diagnostic score. RF and CCP antibodies reflect different aspects of autoimmune activity, and the 14.3.3 ETA marker reflects inflammatory activity rather than antibody presence. Each result should be reviewed alongside the others and with your healthcare provider for a complete picture.
Benefits
- Measures RF, CCP antibodies (IgG/IgA), and 14.3.3 ETA in one test
- CCP antibodies offer higher specificity than RF alone
- 14.3.3 ETA result may help assess active inflammation
- Order online without a physician referral
- Confidential results delivered online
- Useful for monitoring changes in these markers over time
Who Is This Test For?
- People experiencing unexplained joint pain, swelling, or stiffness
- People with a family history of rheumatoid arthritis or autoimmune disease
- People whose symptoms have not responded to rest or standard care
- People already diagnosed with arthritis who are tracking these markers
- People whose healthcare provider has recommended RF, CCP, or inflammatory marker testing
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this arthritis test?
This test reports three separate results: Rheumatoid Arthritis Factor (RF), CCP Antibodies (IgG/IgA), and the 14.3.3 ETA protein marker. RF and CCP antibodies help evaluate autoimmune antibody activity, while the 14.3.3 ETA marker helps evaluate active inflammation. Together, these results can give your healthcare provider useful information, but they do not diagnose rheumatoid arthritis or any other condition on their own.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
People with unexplained joint pain, swelling, or stiffness, or a family history of autoimmune disease, may benefit from these results. People already diagnosed with arthritis may also use these markers to monitor changes over time. A healthcare provider can help determine whether this test fits your specific situation.
3. When should I order this test?
You may consider ordering this test if you have persistent joint symptoms that have not been evaluated, or if you and your healthcare provider are monitoring RF, CCP antibody, or inflammation levels over time. This test does not replace a full medical evaluation, and results are best reviewed with a healthcare provider.
4. How does this test differ from other arthritis tests?
This test reports RF, CCP antibodies (IgG/IgA), and the 14.3.3 ETA inflammatory marker as three distinct results. RF and CCP antibodies measure different autoantibodies and are not interchangeable, and CCP antibodies in this test are limited to the IgG and IgA classes. The 14.3.3 ETA marker reflects inflammatory activity, not antibody presence, so it provides different information than either antibody result. Other arthritis-related tests may measure different antibodies, antibody classes, or markers not included here.
5. Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required for this test. You do not need to follow any dietary restrictions before your blood draw.
6. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available within 8-12 business days after your sample is collected. Turnaround may take longer based on weather, holidays, or lab delays.
7. How do I interpret the results?
The meaning of each result depends on the specific marker and your overall clinical picture, including your symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and any other lab or imaging results. RF, CCP antibodies, and the 14.3.3 ETA marker each provide different information and should not be interpreted as interchangeable. A positive RF or CCP result does not confirm rheumatoid arthritis, and a negative result does not rule it out. Similarly, the 14.3.3 ETA result reflects inflammatory activity but does not on its own confirm or exclude a diagnosis. Discuss your specific results with a qualified healthcare provider.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
8. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
If any of your results fall outside the expected range, review them with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help determine whether additional evaluation or testing is appropriate based on your full clinical picture. This test does not provide a diagnosis or treatment recommendation on its own.
9. How often should I get tested?
Testing frequency depends on your individual situation and should be determined by your healthcare provider. There is no single recommended schedule for everyone, and your provider can advise on retesting as directed based on your symptoms or monitoring needs.
Pre test preparation
No fasting is required for this blood test. Continue taking prescribed medications unless your doctor advises otherwise, as certain medications may affect these markers. Inform your healthcare provider about all current medications, supplements, and symptoms.
Do not stop prescribed medication unless instructed by your healthcare provider.
