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Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I just had a blood test that showed no rheumatoid arthritis. I was told years ago that I did and have all of the symptoms. Should I have

A myRAteam Member asked a question 💭
Eagle, ID

stopped all anti inflammatory drugs etc., before this last test to get an accurate result. my doc says no not necessary. I think the opposite.

June 17
 · 
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A myRAteam Member

I am sorry your PCP told you rheumatologist would not see you. My PCP said the same thing. So I got a.seco d opinion and they recommended a referral to rheumatology. I showed my PCP the letter recommending the referral to rheumatology. I finally got the referral and my rheumatologist is.treating me for seronegative RA. I'd keep advocating for a referral to rheumatology or get a second opinion if needed.
Hugs.

June 17
A myRAteam Member

I asked for a referral and my doc said a rheumatolist wouldn't take me.

June 17
myRAteam

That's a really frustrating situation, and it's completely understandable to question the results when they don't match how you're actually feeling. The good news is — a negative blood test does not rule out RA.

Blood tests for RA are not 100% reliable on their own. Around 20% of people with RA have what's called Show Full Answer

That's a really frustrating situation, and it's completely understandable to question the results when they don't match how you're actually feeling. The good news is — a negative blood test does not rule out RA.

Blood tests for RA are not 100% reliable on their own. Around 20% of people with RA have what's called seronegative RA, meaning the antibodies don't show up in blood tests even though RA is present. As one myRAteam member shared, "My RA has never shown up in blood tests. Because of that, it took years to get a diagnosis." Regarding stopping anti-inflammatory medications before testing — your doctor's guidance has merit. Anti-inflammatory drugs don't typically affect the antibody markers tested for RA (like RF or anti-CCP). However, they can influence inflammation markers like CRP and ESR.

A diagnosis of RA is never based on blood tests alone. It also involves:

- Physical examination of joints
- Imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI
- Symptom history including morning stiffness, fatigue, and swelling
- Multiple blood tests together, not just one

It may be worth asking your doctor for imaging tests or a referral to a rheumatologist if you haven't seen one recently, especially given your ongoing symptoms.

June 17

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