Rheumatoid factor blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Rheumatoid factor is an autoantibody, an antibody that reacts against the body's own proteins rather than against an infection. It is found in many people with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition in which the immune system inflames the lining of the joints. RF can also be present with other autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome, with some long-term infections, and in a proportion of healthy people, particularly as they get older.

Because of this, RF is one piece of evidence rather than an answer. NHS and NICE guidance is that suspected rheumatoid arthritis should be assessed by a specialist on the basis of symptoms and examination, with blood tests such as RF, anti-CCP antibodies and inflammatory markers adding to the picture.

Your price includes the sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request. No GP referral is needed.

Who it is for

• You have joint pain, swelling or stiffness, especially in the small joints of the hands or feet.
• Your joints feel stiff for more than 30 minutes after waking.
• You have a family history of rheumatoid arthritis and want a starting point for discussion.
• You have symptoms such as dry eyes and mouth alongside joint aches.
• Your practitioner has suggested RF as part of an autoimmune assessment.

Understanding your result

A positive RF makes rheumatoid arthritis more likely if you also have typical symptoms, and higher levels are linked with a more active course. However, a positive result can occur with other autoimmune conditions, chronic infections, liver disease and in healthy older adults. A negative result does not rule out rheumatoid arthritis, as many people have the condition without RF, particularly early on.

Your report shows the laboratory reference range. A result outside the range is a prompt for discussion, not a diagnosis, and your practitioner can advise whether to ask your GP about a rheumatology referral.

Preparing for your test

No fasting or special preparation is needed. Keep taking your usual medicines and tell us about any you use for joint pain or autoimmune conditions. If you have a hot, very swollen joint or feel unwell with a fever, seek medical advice the same day rather than booking a test.

RF is part of Advanced GP3, which also includes inflammation and general health markers, and of Omnia Signature. You can compare every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a rheumatoid factor test in Chiswick?

The rheumatoid factor blood test costs £49. That covers your sample at our clinic, laboratory analysis, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

If my RF is positive, do I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Not necessarily. RF can be positive in healthy people and with other conditions. Rheumatoid arthritis is diagnosed by a specialist using symptoms, examination and several tests together.

Can I have rheumatoid arthritis with a negative RF?

Yes. A significant number of people with the condition test negative, especially early on. Persistent joint symptoms should still be assessed.

How is RF different from anti-CCP?

Both are autoantibodies linked to rheumatoid arthritis. Anti-CCP is more specific to it, so the two are often requested together by specialists.