RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
DIAGNOSIS |
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There is no specific test available for diagnosing RA. Apart from a
history of the symptoms outlined above, your GP may check for:
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A High Rheumatoid Factor.
Rheumatoid factor, a blood protein produced by a reaction in the
immune system, is elevated in more than 66 percent of patients
with RA. However, it is not specific for RA and is elevated in
other auto-immune diseases and in 5 percent of the normal
healthy population (this increases to 10-20 percent of
individuals over 65 years.) |
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A High ESR (Erythrocyte
Sedimentation Rate). ESR is the rate at which the red cells in a
column of blood fall. It is a non-specific test indicating the
presence of disease. |
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Anaemia. |
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Abnormal
synovial fluid (produced by the synovial membrane to
lubricate the joint). It may be straw coloured, contain a large
number of white blood cells, lower than normal glucose level and
increased protein. These changes are characteristic of joint
infection from any cause. |
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| RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS RELATED ITEMS |
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