The Rheumatology Profile 3 (Rheumatoid/Basic) Blood Test is used to help diagnose and monitor rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other basic autoimmune conditions. This test focuses on specific biomarkers that are commonly altered in patients with inflammatory joint diseases, especially RA. It is a foundational screening tool for patients presenting with symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and other inflammatory signs.

Components of the Rheumatology Profile 3 (Rheumatoid/Basic) Blood Test:

1. Rheumatoid Factor (RF)

  • Purpose: Measures the level of rheumatoid factor, an antibody commonly present in rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Indication: A positive RF test can support the diagnosis of RA but can also be elevated in other autoimmune diseases, infections, and in some healthy individuals.
  • Abnormal Results: A high RF level is associated with more aggressive RA but can also be seen in Sjögren’s syndrome, hepatitis, and other conditions.

2. Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (Anti-CCP) Antibodies

  • Purpose: Detects antibodies against cyclic citrullinated peptides.
  • Indication: Highly specific for rheumatoid arthritis, particularly in its early stages, and is used to confirm the diagnosis of RA.
  • Abnormal Results: A positive Anti-CCP result is strongly suggestive of RA and is often associated with a more severe disease course.

3. C-Reactive Protein (CRP)

  • Purpose: A marker of inflammation that rises in response to inflammatory conditions, including RA.
  • Indication: Used to assess the level of inflammation and monitor the activity of the disease over time.
  • Abnormal Results: Elevated CRP levels indicate active inflammation and are commonly seen in rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders.

4. Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)

  • Purpose: Measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube, a nonspecific marker of inflammation.
  • Indication: Helps assess the presence and severity of inflammation.
  • Abnormal Results: A higher ESR suggests inflammation, which can be seen in rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or other autoimmune conditions.

5. Complete Blood Count (CBC)

  • Purpose: Measures the overall levels of red blood cells, white blood cells, haemoglobin, and platelets.
  • Indication: Useful for detecting anaemia, inflammation, and infection, which are common in autoimmune diseases like RA.
  • Abnormal Results: Low red blood cells (anaemia) or elevated white blood cells may suggest chronic inflammation or infection.

6. Uric Acid

Conditions Often Assessed with Rheumatology Profile 3:

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
  • Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
  • Lupus (in certain cases)
  • Sjögren’s Syndrome
  • Ankylosing Spondylitis (inflammatory markers like CRP and ESR)

When Is the Rheumatology Profile 3 Test Ordered?

  • Suspected Rheumatoid Arthritis: When a patient presents with joint pain, stiffness (especially in the morning), swelling, and other symptoms consistent with RA.
  • Monitoring Disease Activity: For patients with diagnosed RA to track inflammation and response to treatment.
  • Screening for Other Autoimmune Disorders: When there is a suspicion of another autoimmune disease, particularly if inflammatory markers like CRP and ESR are elevated.

Interpretation of Results:

  • Positive RF and/or Anti-CCP: Strongly suggestive of RA, especially if clinical symptoms are present.
  • Elevated ESR and CRP: Indicate active inflammation, which may warrant more aggressive treatment or adjustment of therapy in patients with RA.
  • CBC Abnormalities: Anaemia or leucocytosis (increased white blood cells) may suggest chronic inflammation, while thrombocytosis (elevated platelets) can be a marker of active disease.

Conclusion:

The Rheumatology Profile 3 (Rheumatoid/Basic) Blood Test is a focused diagnostic tool designed to identify and monitor rheumatoid arthritis and related inflammatory conditions. By measuring rheumatoid factor, Anti-CCP antibodies, and inflammatory markers like CRP and ESR, this profile helps healthcare providers diagnose RA early and track disease progression. This is a valuable test for both initial screening and ongoing management of rheumatoid and other autoimmune diseases.

Results – 2 days from Laboratory receiving sample

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