What blood tests are used to help diagnose and monitor rheumatoid arthritis?
Blood tests are a key part of diagnosing and managing RA, though no single test can confirm it on its own. A rheumatologist will typically use a combination of tests alongside a physical exam and imaging.
Here are the main blood tests used:
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What blood tests are used to help diagnose and monitor rheumatoid arthritis?
Blood tests are a key part of diagnosing and managing RA, though no single test can confirm it on its own. A rheumatologist will typically use a combination of tests alongside a physical exam and imaging.
Here are the main blood tests used:
- Rheumatoid Factor (RF) – Looks for an autoantibody often found in RA. A positive result doesn't automatically confirm RA, and some people with RA test negative.
- Anti-CCP (Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide) – A more accurate marker for RA. A high positive result gives a 90% chance of having RA. It can even show up before symptoms begin.
- ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) – Measures inflammation levels in the body.
- CRP (C-Reactive Protein) – Another inflammation marker, also useful for tracking flare-ups.
- ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) – Helps rule out other autoimmune conditions.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) – Checks for anemia, which is common in people with RA.
- Liver and kidney function tests – Important for monitoring the effects of RA medications. It's worth knowing that some people with RA never test positive on standard blood tests — this is called seronegative RA. As one myRAteam member shared, "My RA has never shown up in blood tests. Because of that, it took years to get a diagnosis."
If your blood work comes back negative but you still have symptoms like joint pain, swelling, or morning stiffness, it's important to keep talking to your rheumatologist. Imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI can help fill in the gaps.
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