However, it doesn’t indicate the cause of the inflammation. The result tells your doctor whether inflammation is present.
The ESR test helps determine the degree of inflammation in your body. Your body may make antibodies as a response to many different types of conditions, including RA. The antinuclear antibody panel tests your immune system to see if it’s producing antibodies. The anti-CCP Ab is more specific for RA than the RF test However, not everyone with RA tests positive for this antibody. People who have this antibody usually have the disease. This test looks for an antibody that’s associated with RA.
There are several types of blood tests that help your healthcare provider or rheumatologist determine whether you have RA. Learn more about the process of diagnosing RA. Tests not only show if joint damage has occurred but also how severe the damage is.Ī complete evaluation and monitoring of other organ systems might be recommended for some people with RA, too. They may also request certain imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, X-ray, or MRI. These can be a sign of RA and help support the diagnosis. They may test your blood for certain substances like antibodies, or check the level of certain substances like acute phase reactants that are elevated during inflammatory conditions. Since no single test can confirm a diagnosis of RA, your healthcare provider or rheumatologist may use several different types of tests. If they suspect RA, they’ll most likely refer you to a specialist called a rheumatologist.