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Rheumatoid Factor Test

Abhishtita MudunuriLast Updated on 19th January 2022

A rheumatoid factor (RF) test is a quantitative test, used to measure the amount of rheumatoid factors (RFs) present in your blood. It was initially detected and studied in a rheumatoid arthritis patient around 70 years ago. RFs are a class of specialized proteins called immunoglobulins (Igs) that cause autoimmune diseases/disorders. A doctor orders a rheumatoid arthritis factor (RF) test to confirm and distinguish between rheumatoid arthritis and other types of arthritis problems that you are suffering from. Higher levels of rheumatoid factors in blood indicate a more progressive form of the disease in adults and possible complications in the body.

What is a Rheumatoid Factor test used for?What is included in the Rheumatoid Factor test?Procedure for the Rheumatoid Factor test How to prepare for the Rheumatoid Factor test?Things to consider after the Rheumatoid Factor test is complete What types of conditions can the Rheumatoid Factor test detect?How much does the Rheumatoid Factor test cost?What do abnormal Rheumatoid Factor test results indicate?Why book the Rheumatoid Factor test?Frequently Asked Questions

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What is a Rheumatoid Factor test used for?

The rheumatoid factor (quantitative) test is used to detect the amount of rheumatoid factors in blood. It helps to diagnose:

autoimmune diseases
disease progression

Under natural circumstances, the immunoglobulins fight against foreign substances like bacteria, viruses or other parasites in the body. In rheumatoid arthritis, the rheumatoid factors mistakenly attack their own body cells, causing autoimmune diseases. The amount of rheumatoid measured in blood gives an idea of how far the disease has progressed. Higher rheumatoid factors are associated with severe rheumatoid arthritis and joint pain, inflammation, and swelling.

What is included in the Rheumatoid Factor test?

The doctor prescribes a rheumatoid factor test to confirm whether you are suffering from certain autoimmune diseases, arthritis or other infections. Along with a rheumatoid factor test, the doctor may advise additional tests to diagnose your condition.

Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) test

The test is performed alongside the rheumatoid factor test. If both rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptides are detected in your blood, it means you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.

C-reactive protein (CRP) test

If your blood test confirms the presence of C-reactive proteins, it indicates inflammation in your body. The reason for inflammation could be some infection or other autoimmune diseases. The doctor may prescribe additional tests for confirmation.

Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test

The presence of the antinuclear antibody and rheumatoid factor together indicate an autoimmune disorder.

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test

A higher level of ESR confirms inflammatory diseases caused by infections, rheumatoid arthritis, fever or other autoimmune disorders.

Procedure for the Rheumatoid Factor test

The doctor prescribes a rheumatoid factor test if you are experiencing constant joint pain, swelling, slight fever, joint stiffness or tiredness.

You can book a rheumatoid factor (quantitative) test through the MFine app.
A certified lab technician will arrive at your doorstep to collect the blood sample at a given time and date of your choice.
The blood sample is collected by inserting a sterile needle into the vein. It is then sent to a recognized lab for further testing and analysis.
After complete analysis, the blood report will be available on the MFine app within the next 24 to 48 hours.
You can also consult expert doctors online regarding your blood report and order the prescribed medicines.

Book a rheumatoid factor (quantitative) test to check your rheumatoid factor (RF) level!

How to prepare for the Rheumatoid Factor test?

There is no special preparation needed for the rheumatoid factor blood test. People of any age group can get tested for rheumatoid factors. You may feel slight pain and discomfort while the needle is injected to take the blood sample. Your doctor may inform you to not eat anything for a few hours before taking the sample. However, the blood test results are unbiased towards the food eaten. If you are under any other medication, inform your doctor or the lab technician about the same.

Things to consider after the Rheumatoid Factor test is complete

Apart from temporary pain and bruising at the site of needle injection, there are no other restrictions on any activities. Once the blood test reports are available on the MFine app, consult your doctor for appropriate treatment based on your test results. Before starting the prescribed medication, do inform the doctor if there is a case of possible pregnancy. Please do not self-diagnose your health condition.

What types of conditions can the Rheumatoid Factor test detect?

The RF test can detect certain autoimmune and non-autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, juvenile arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, scleroderma, tuberculosis infection, leukemia, multiple myeloma, and Still’s disease. After proper consultation and diagnosis, you can start the prescribed medication.

How much does the Rheumatoid Factor test cost?

In India, the average cost of the test is around Rs. 400/- to Rs. 700/-. The price may vary at government and private hospitals and laboratories. The type of analyses conducted at the labs may also cause price alterations in the test.

*Disclaimer: The value varies based on location, time, and your preferred lab partner.

How long does it take to get the Rheumatoid Factor test results?

You can expect to get the test results within 24 to 48 hours, after the sample is collected. The blood report is available for download on the MFine app. However, depending on the medical advice and preferred lab partner, it may take longer in some instances.

What do abnormal Rheumatoid Factor test results indicate?

An abnormal result indicates that you have tested positive, and your blood contains abnormally higher levels of rheumatoid factor. Your doctor prescribes a combination of tests to confirm the diagnosis of your illness. In a healthy adult, the rheumatoid factor levels are less than 15 International Units per milliliter (IU/mL). Any levels of rheumatoid factors above 15 IU/mL indicate that you have rheumatoid arthritis or other possible autoimmune disorders. Your health care provider may recommend additional tests like CRP, ANA or anti-CCP to confirm the diagnosis. People who suffer from ailments like hepatitis, kidney disorders, bacterial and viral infections can also test positive for rheumatoid factors. Do not self-medicate without taking an expert medical opinion.

Disclaimer: Please consult your doctor for interpreting the test reports.

Is Rheumatoid Factor a definitive test?

The rheumatoid factor is not confirmed with the rheumatoid factor (quantitative) test alone. The doctor may check for certain symptoms like joint inflammation, pain, stiffness or fever. They may prescribe an anti-CCP test and an anti-RF IgM test to confirm the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, a definitive test.

How to read the Rheumatoid Factor test report

The blood test report can be positive or negative. A numerical range of rheumatoid factor values will be provided to compare your detected results. Negative results are considered normal, and the positive results indicate an abnormal condition. The reference range depends on the test analysis performed in the laboratories. If you are tested positive for rheumatoid factor, it means you have an underlying health condition. But the report is insufficient to diagnose the specific underlying condition. RFs can detect certain bacterial and viral infections, not just rheumatoid arthritis conditions. Therefore, it is crucial to consult your doctor for report analysis instead of self-diagnosing the blood test results.

Rheumatoid arthritis is confirmed with an additional test called the anti-CCP test. It detects the presence of CCP antibodies and confirms rheumatoid arthritis. A higher level of anti-CCP, and an elevated rheumatoid factor value of above 15 IU/mL, can confirm rheumatoid arthritis. The higher the anti-CCP and rheumatoid factors, the more severe the condition is. The biological range of rheumatoid factors in the blood are as follows:

Negative/Normal result – 0 to 15 IU/mL
Positive/Abnormal result – Above 15 IU/mL.

Book a Rheumatoid Factor test to check your anti-CCP level!

Why book the Rheumatoid Factor test?

The test is helpful to diagnose various underlying health conditions in men and women. If you experience symptoms like weakness, joint stiffness along with pain and swelling, mild fever, lumps under the skin, and weight loss, it is best to get tested for rheumatoid arthritis. The blood test is used:

To detect autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Sjogren’s syndrome, or lupus erythematosus
To observe the effectiveness of the treatment for rheumatoid arthritis
To screen the individuals who have a high risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis
To rule out the possibilities of cancers, hepatitis, and other bacterial infections before starting any treatment.

Rheumatoid Factor test at home – how does it work?

The rheumatoid factor (quantitative) test is like any other blood test. A lab technician visits your home when you book your tests through the MFine app. The lab technician first cleans the arm and then inserts a syringe into a vein. The required amount of blood is then taken into a vial. The lab technician then removes the needle and places cotton wool or a bandage over the prick. The blood sample is taken to the respective laboratory for further examination.

Are there any risks involved with the Rheumatoid Factor test?

The rheumatoid factor (quantitative) blood test is a low-risk procedure regardless of age and other health factors. If you have a phobia for needles or syringes, kindly inform the person who takes your blood sample. Be sure to notify them about blood clotting disorders (if applicable). If not, there is no need to worry about the test. You will feel temporary pain and bruising at the needle injection site after the blood withdrawal. The bruising will heal in two or three days without any medication.

What can affect the results of the Rheumatoid Factor test?

You may be tested false positive or false negative for rheumatoid factors during the blood test. Most of the time, people who are rheumatoid factor-positive do not have rheumatoid arthritis and its related symptoms. The rheumatoid factors can also be detected due to inflammation caused by microbial infections, connective tissue injury or cancer. Additional tests like the ANA test can confirm inflammation. You may also test negative for rheumatoid factors but show signs of rheumatoid arthritis. The doctor might suggest imaging scans and other blood tests to diagnose the specific problem in such cases. The chemicals, type of glassware, and detergents used in the laboratories can also alter the blood test results.

Book a Rheumatoid Factor test to check your Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA) level!

Our Trusted Lab Partners for Rheumatoid Factor Test

MFine Diagnostics

Starting at

₹550

Wellness Pathcare

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₹550

Thyrocare

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₹550

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Frequently Asked Questions | FAQs

Is the lab technician coming for the Rheumatoid Factor (Quantitative) test sample collection, vaccinated?

Yes. Our lab technicians are fully vaccinated. Further, they also ensure safety by wearing a mask, gloves and frequently sanitizing themselves during the sample collection.

Does MFine provide the interpretation for the results along with the reports?

Yes, MFine provides the interpretation for the results along with the reports. You can also avail of a free medical consultation with a doctor to understand your reports accurately. The doctor will also advise and prescribe medicines, if required, based on the results.

How can I download my Rheumatoid Factor (Quantitative) test report?

Login to MFine
Go to your profile
Click on Attachment and Reports
Click on Lab Report
Download the report

Are there any discount offers running on the Rheumatoid Factor (Quantitative) test?

Usually, you can avail of up to a 50% discount on the rheumatoid factor (quantitative) test through MFine. However, the discount and test price may vary based on lab partner and location.

What are the symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint stiffness, difficulty in movement, joint pain with swelling and inflammation, intermittent fever, fatigue, weight loss, etc. Some people may also feel lumps or nodules under their skin. Consult your doctor for timely medication if you observe the symptoms.

What foods should rheumatoid arthritis patients avoid?

If you have rheumatoid arthritis, it is best to consult your doctor about the diet. Fried foods, refined carbohydrates and sugar, dairy products, gluten, alcohol, and salt must be avoided in the diet. Citrus fruits, probiotics, whole grains, and green vegetables can be healthy since they contain many antioxidants.

What joints does rheumatoid arthritis affect?

Rheumatoid arthritis can impact joints in the hands and legs, knees, wrist, ankles, shoulder, etc. It causes joint inflammation and tenderness leading to chronic pain, instability or shakiness, and deformities as the condition worsens. The patient may feel difficulty moving limbs and doing everyday activities.

Is rheumatoid arthritis genetic or hereditary?

Rheumatoid arthritis is not a hereditary condition. However, certain genetic factors can raise the chances of developing the autoimmune disease. The genes are specifically related to the immune system and inflammation that impact cells. You can consult your doctor about the family history of rheumatoid arthritis.

Can a 25-year-old have rheumatoid arthritis?

Yes, rheumatoid arthritis can affect adults at any age. However, it depends on other underlying medical conditions and genetic factors. It usually affects middle-aged people in their 30s and above and is called elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis. They start experiencing problems in the limb joints.

Is there a cure for rheumatoid arthritis?

No. There is no permanent cure or treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. With timely diagnosis and medication, the progression of the disease can be delayed by treating the symptoms. But, since the condition affects the bones and connective tissues in the joints, it cannot be permanently cured.

Disclaimer: The content is uniquely informative and is meant for educational use. Kindly use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified or registered healthcare provider.