That's a really good question, and it can feel confusing when different tests give different results. Here's what's likely going on:
The standard RF (Rheumatoid Factor) test has limitations — it's not the most sensitive test, meaning it can miss RA in some people. A negative RF doesn't rule out RA. The AVISE test is a more Show Full Answer
That's a really good question, and it can feel confusing when different tests give different results. Here's what's likely going on:
The standard RF (Rheumatoid Factor) test has limitations — it's not the most sensitive test, meaning it can miss RA in some people. A negative RF doesn't rule out RA. The AVISE test is a more advanced multi-biomarker test that can detect lower levels of antibodies that a standard RF test might miss entirely.
This is why results can differ between the two:
- Standard RF tests look for one specific antibody at a general threshold
- The AVISE test uses a broader panel of markers, making it more sensitive at detecting lower antibody levels
- Early-stage RA can produce antibodies at slower rates, which standard tests may not pick up
As for your positive ANA on both tests — ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) is a very sensitive marker, meaning it shows up positive in most people with autoimmune activity, including RA. However, it's not specific to RA alone, so it's considered a supporting indicator rather than a definitive one.
The combination of a positive AVISE RF and positive ANA is meaningful information for your rheumatologist to work with alongside your symptoms and physical exam. It's worth discussing these results with them to understand what they mean for your specific situation.
July 1
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