Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Test

The RA (rheumatoid arthritis) test is a blood test used to assist in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation and pain in the joints. The RA test specifically detects the presence of certain antibodies in the blood that are associated with rheumatoid arthritis. The main antibody targeted in the RA test is called rheumatoid factor (RF). RF is present in the blood of some individuals with rheumatoid arthritis, although it can also be found in other conditions. Another antibody commonly tested is an anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP), which has a higher specificity for rheumatoid arthritis. The RA test is valuable in helping to confirm a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and differentiate it from other types of arthritis.