Why is this procedure done?
This test is done to look for the rheumatoid factor. It is a protein in your blood that attacks your own tissues. This protein is made by your immune system when you have certain diseases. It is known as an autoantibody.
The doctor may order a rheumatoid factor test to:
- Check for certain diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or Sj ¶gren syndrome.
- Learn more about signs like pain, stiff joints, swelling, or dry eyes.
- Determine the best treatment approach for you.
- Go along with other tests.
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What will the results be?
- The doctor will look at the results of your test. The doctor may learn that you have signs of an illness that needs treatment.
- If the results are negative or low levels of the rheumatoid factor, the results are normal. This means you likely do not have rheumatoid arthritis or Sj ¶gren syndrome.
- If the results are positive or high levels of the rheumatoid factor, the results are not normal. This means you may have rheumatoid arthritis or Sj ¶gren syndrome. You may also have some other illness that is causing this test result.
- Your doctor may order other tests. These tests will help your doctor check a result that is not normal.
- The doctor will talk with you about treatment.
What happens before the procedure?
- There are no special things to do before the test.
- Talk to your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking
- If you have any bleeding problems
What happens during the procedure?
It will only take a few minutes to have this test. You will be awake the whole time. You will have a small amount of blood taken from you with a needle. You may have a small amount of pain. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The lab will test your blood to look for the rheumatoid factor.
What happens after the procedure?
- You may want to sit quietly for a few minutes before standing up. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy after the test.
- Put pressure with your other hand where the needle was. This will help with bruising and bleeding.
- Ask your doctor when you will get the results.
What care is needed at home?
You may do your everyday activities when you get back home.
What follow-up care is needed?
You will need to get your results from the doctor. Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. This test will help your doctor understand if you have a problem. Your doctor will consider your signs and health and family history. Together you can make a plan for more care.
What problems could happen?
- Pain
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Feeling dizzy
- Infection
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/rheumatoid/tab/test
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This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you.
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