myRAteam

What blood tests should you have to check for RA, thyroid, and liver function?

For rheumatoid arthritis, your doctor will likely order several blood tests:

- Rheumatoid factor (RF) - checks for an autoantibody often found in people with RA
- Anti-CCP (anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide) - a more accurate test for Show Full Answer

What blood tests should you have to check for RA, thyroid, and liver function?

For rheumatoid arthritis, your doctor will likely order several blood tests:

- Rheumatoid factor (RF) - checks for an autoantibody often found in people with RA
- Anti-CCP (anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide) - a more accurate test for diagnosing RA, present in 60-70% of people with the condition
- ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) - measures inflammation levels
- C-reactive protein (CRP) - another test that checks for inflammation in your body

For liver function, blood tests measure liver enzymes to ensure your liver is working properly. This is especially important if you're taking or planning to take medications like methotrexate.

For thyroid function, your doctor can order thyroid tests to check how well your thyroid is working, as thyroid issues can sometimes occur alongside RA.

Your doctor may also order a complete blood count (CBC) to check for anemia, which is common in people with RA. Keep in mind that no single test can definitively diagnose RA - your rheumatologist will combine blood test results with a physical examination, your medical history, and possibly imaging tests like ultrasound or X-rays to make an accurate diagnosis.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Blood Tests for Diagnosing Rheumatoid Arthritis

How Is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed? Tests and More