Rheumatology Extended blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

This panel builds on the core joint markers with two broader autoimmune antibody tests. Anti-CCP and rheumatoid factor are antibodies linked with rheumatoid arthritis. ESR gives a general measure of inflammation, and uric acid helps when gout is a possibility.

Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) target material within the body's own cell nuclei. ANA is often requested when someone has symptoms that could fit conditions such as lupus, Sjögren's syndrome or other connective tissue diseases, for example joint pain with rashes, mouth ulcers, dry eyes or sensitivity to sunlight. Smooth muscle antibodies are mainly associated with autoimmune hepatitis, an inflammatory liver condition.

The price includes your sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner, and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You have joint pain or stiffness together with other symptoms such as rashes, mouth ulcers or dry eyes.
• A basic joint test was normal but your symptoms continue.
• You have a family history of autoimmune conditions and want to discuss your symptoms.
• You have had abnormal liver results and your clinician has suggested checking autoimmune markers.
• You would like a wider set of markers in one appointment.

Understanding your result

Each marker is printed in your report with its laboratory reference range. A positive ANA is common and can be found in many healthy people, especially women and older adults, at low levels. Its value comes from being read with symptoms and, where needed, more specific follow-up antibodies. A positive anti-CCP adds weight to a possible rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis, and positive smooth muscle antibodies usually prompt further liver tests.

A raised ESR shows inflammation without identifying its source, and a high uric acid supports gout in the right setting. Any flagged value is there to prompt a conversation, never to give a diagnosis by itself. Persistent joint swelling should be assessed by your GP, who can refer you to a rheumatologist.

Preparing for your test

There is no need to fast beforehand. Try to avoid a heavy meal with red meat, offal or alcohol the evening before, as this can raise uric acid. Tell us about any steroids, immune-suppressing medicines, diuretics or gout treatments, and bring any earlier results so your practitioner can compare them.

Because smooth muscle antibodies relate to the liver, our liver function tests can be helpful alongside, and the Full Blood Count adds detail on blood cells. If none of these fit, look through every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is Rheumatology Extended in Chiswick?

Rheumatology Extended costs £179 at our Chiswick clinic. This includes your blood sample, analysis of all six markers at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

What does a positive ANA mean?

It means antibodies to cell nuclei were found. This can occur in autoimmune conditions but also in healthy people, so it is always read with your symptoms and sometimes followed by more specific tests.

How is this different from the Rheumatology Check?

The Rheumatology Check covers anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, ESR and uric acid. The extended panel adds ANA and smooth muscle antibodies for a broader autoimmune view.

Can it confirm lupus or rheumatoid arthritis?

No. These conditions are diagnosed by a doctor using symptoms, examination and several tests. This panel helps decide whether further assessment is needed.