Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: Fasting overnight is required
- Turnaround: 3-6 days (may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays)
What This Test Measures
This test measures three rheumatoid factor antibody classes in a blood sample: Rheumatoid Factor (IgA), Rheumatoid Factor (IgG), and Rheumatoid Factor (IgM). Rheumatoid factors are antibodies produced by the immune system that can mistakenly target healthy tissue. By reporting each antibody class separately, this test allows your healthcare provider to see results for IgA, IgG, and IgM individually rather than as a single combined value.
This test does not measure anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies, and it does not include an inflammatory marker such as ESR or CRP. It reflects rheumatoid factor antibody levels only and is not a complete evaluation of joint symptoms or autoimmune activity on its own.
Benefits
- Measures three rheumatoid factor antibody classes (IgA, IgG, IgM) separately
- Supports evaluation alongside other clinical information
- Convenient blood sample collection at a local lab
- Results provided through a secure online portal
- Useful data point for discussions with your healthcare provider
Who Is This Test For?
- Adults with joint pain, swelling, or stiffness they want evaluated
- Adults experiencing symptoms in the wrists, hands, or feet
- Adults with joint stiffness lasting longer than 30 minutes
- Adults with symptoms such as fatigue, low fevers, or dry eyes or mouth
- Adults working with a healthcare provider to explore possible causes of symptoms
- Adults interested in tracking rheumatoid factor antibody levels over time
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 measures three rheumatoid factor antibody classes, IgA, IgG, and IgM, in a blood sample. Rheumatoid factors are antibodies that can mistakenly target healthy tissue in the body. Reviewing levels of these three antibody classes may help a healthcare provider evaluate symptoms that could be related to rheumatoid arthritis or certain other autoimmune conditions. This test evaluates an antibody response rather than inflammatory activity, and it does not diagnose arthritis on its own.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
Adults experiencing joint pain, swelling, warmth, or stiffness, particularly in the wrists, hands, or feet, may want to explore this test with their healthcare provider. It may also be useful for adults with symptoms such as fatigue, occasional low fevers, or dry eyes or mouth. This test is intended to support, not replace, a broader evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider.
3. When should I order this test?
You may consider this test if you are experiencing joint symptoms such as pain, tenderness, swelling, or stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes, especially if these symptoms occur on both sides of the body. It may also be considered alongside other evaluation your healthcare provider recommends. This test does not replace a full medical evaluation or provide a complete rheumatologic assessment on its own.
4. How does this test differ from other arthritis tests?
This test specifically measures rheumatoid factor across three antibody classes, IgA, IgG, and IgM, reported individually rather than as a single combined result. It does not measure anti-CCP antibodies, which are a distinct type of antibody used in some arthritis evaluations. It also does not include inflammatory markers such as ESR or CRP, which reflect general inflammation rather than a specific antibody response. Because rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP antibodies, and inflammatory markers each provide different information, they are not interchangeable with one another.
5. Do I need to fast before this test?
Yes, fasting overnight is required before this test.
6. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 3-6 days. This may take longer based on weather, holidays, or lab delays.
7. How do I interpret the results?
The meaning of your rheumatoid factor results depends on the specific antibody class, your symptoms, medical history, physical findings, and other laboratory results. A positive result for one or more rheumatoid factor antibody classes does not automatically confirm rheumatoid arthritis, and a negative result does not rule out rheumatoid arthritis or another condition. Results for IgA, IgG, and IgM should not be interpreted as interchangeable, and rheumatoid factor should not be interpreted as though it were an anti-CCP antibody result. Your healthcare provider can help place your results in the context of your overall health.
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 your results fall outside the expected range, review them with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help determine whether additional evaluation or testing may be appropriate based on your symptoms and overall health. This result alone does not provide a complete clinical conclusion, and no treatment or medication decisions should be made without guidance from your provider.
9. How often should I get tested?
There is no set testing schedule for this test. How often you may want to repeat rheumatoid factor testing should be determined as directed by your healthcare provider, based on your symptoms and overall clinical picture.
Pre test preparation
Fasting overnight is required before this test.
