Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Rheumatoid factor (RF) is one laboratory test that can provide valuable information about the health of the immune system and musculoskeletal system.This is a marker that can be elevated in various disease states.In this article, we will take a closer look at the rheumatoid factor, its norms, when it is worth performing an RF test, and what diseases an increased level of this factor may indicate.
What is rheumatoid factor (rf)?
Rheumatoid factor (RF) is an antibody directed against the body’s own proteins, especially immunoglobulin G (IgG).This is one of the basic tests used in the diagnosis of diseases of the immune system, in particular rheumatoid arthritis (RA).However, elevated RF levels can also occur in other conditions, so it is important to understand exactly when to test for it.
When is it worth performing an RF test?
Rheumatoid factor (RF) testing may be recommended in the following situations:
- If you have symptoms suggestive of rheumatoid arthritis, such as joint pain, swelling, stiffness in the morning.
- To confirm or exclude the diagnosis of RA.
- In case of suspicion of other diseases of the immune system, such as systemic lupus erythematosus or systemic sclerosis.
- To monitor the course of the disease in patients already diagnosed with RA.
It is worth noting that the RF test is not specific only to RA and may give false positive results in other disease states, therefore it should always be interpreted in the context of other tests and clinical symptoms.
Rheumatoid factor RF – norms
Rheumatoid factor (RF) standards may vary slightly depending on the laboratory that performs the test.Generally speaking, RF levels are low or undetectable in healthy people.Typically it is below 20 IU/ml.However, this value may be slightly higher in older people, without necessarily being related to the disease.
What diseases does elevated rheumatoid factor (rf) indicate?
Elevated levels of rheumatoid factor may indicate various diseases, not only RA.Diseases and conditions that can cause increased RF include:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Systemic sclerosis
- Polymyositis
- Endocarditis
Therefore, it is important that the results of the RF test are always interpreted by a doctor and analyzed in the context of clinical symptoms and other diagnostic tests.
What does an RF test look like?
Rheumatoid factor testing involves taking the patient’s blood and determining the RF level in the laboratory.The result is expressed in international units per milliliter (IU/ml).No special preparations are required before the test.
Rheumatoid factor (rf) – test price/reimbursement
Rheumatoid factor (RF) testing costs may vary by laboratory and region.Some laboratory tests are reimbursed by the National Health Fund (NFZ) as part of the applicable Polish health care system.Patients should consult their doctor to find out whether they are eligible for reimbursement for RF testing.
Your suggestions
If you have concerns about rheumatoid factor (RF) or need more information about it, it is always worth consulting your doctor or rheumatologist.A professional medical opinion will help in the proper interpretation of test results and in making the right diagnosis.
Recommended articles
If you are interested in the topic of laboratory tests and diagnosis of diseases of the musculoskeletal system, we recommend that you read the articles on this topic available on our website.You will find a lot of valuable information about the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases.
It is worth remembering that rheumatoid factor (RF) is only one of many diagnostic factors that may be useful in diagnosing diseases of the immune system.Proper diagnosis and treatment should always be carried out by medical specialists.