All Arthritis Tests

Arthritis is a family of conditions that cause joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. It includes autoimmune types (e.g., rheumatoid arthritisankylosing spondylitispsoriatic arthritislupus-related arthritis) and degenerative forms like osteoarthritis. Because symptoms overlap, arthritis blood tests help clarify what’s driving inflammation, support diagnosis, and track disease activity over time.

Ulta Lab Tests offers a comprehensive menu of arthritis blood panels and individual markers—covering inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR), autoimmune antibodies (RF, anti-CCP, ANA), genetic markers (HLA-B27) and more. Order online, complete a quick draw at a nearby location, and get fast, secure results to share with your clinician.

Who this page is for: adults and teens with persistent joint symptoms; parents of children with suspected juvenile arthritis; clinicians seeking convenient lab access for screening, diagnosis, or monitoring.


Signs & Symptoms (When to consider testing)

  • Joint pain & tenderness: hands, wrists, knees, hips, feet, spine; pain after rest or prolonged use.

  • Morning stiffness: lasting 30–60+ minutes (common in autoimmune arthritis).

  • Swelling, warmth, redness: visible joint inflammation; puffy fingers/toes.

  • Limited mobility & function: difficulty gripping, climbing stairs, bending, or turning the neck/back.

  • Systemic clues: fatigue, low-grade fever, unintended weight loss (autoimmune disease).

  • Axial symptoms: chronic low-back or buttock pain improving with activity (suggests spondyloarthritis).

  • Episodic flares: symptom spikes after illness or stress.

  • Pediatric red flags: persistent joint swelling, limping, daily fevers or rash (juvenile idiopathic arthritis).

  • Related conditions: rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, lupus, gout.


Why These Tests Matter

What arthritis labs can do

  • Detect systemic inflammation (CRP, ESR) to confirm an inflammatory pattern.

  • Identify autoimmune activity (RF, anti-CCP for RA; ANA for connective-tissue disease).

  • Reveal genetic association (HLA-B27) that supports spondyloarthritis when symptoms fit.

  • Help differentiate inflammatory vs. degenerative joint disease.

  • Track disease activity and response to care over time.

What they cannot do

  • Replace a clinical exam or imaging; no single blood test “proves” arthritis.

  • Specify joint damage or location—X-ray/MRI/ultrasound may be needed.

  • Establish treatment plans—discuss results with your clinician.


What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • CRP (C-reactive protein), ESR: current level of inflammation; helpful for flares and monitoring.

  • Rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-CCP: key autoantibodies for rheumatoid arthritis (anti-CCP is highly specific).

  • ANA (antinuclear antibodies): screens for connective-tissue disease (e.g., lupus) that can cause arthritis.

  • HLA-B27: genetic marker associated with ankylosing spondylitis & related spondyloarthropathies.

  • Uric acid: supports evaluation of gout (a crystal-arthritis).

  • CBC, CMP: overall health context (anemia of chronic disease, organ function) that informs the arthritis workup.


How the Testing Process Works

  1. Order online: choose an arthritis panel or individual markers.

  2. Visit a local lab: quick blood draw at a nearby patient service center.

  3. Get results fast: most results post within 24–48 hours in your secure account.

  4. Review with your clinician: align results with symptoms, exam, and imaging.


Interpreting Results (general guidance)

  • High CRP/ESR → supports inflammation; often rises during flares.

  • RF(+) and/or anti-CCP(+) → strengthens suspicion for rheumatoid arthritis, especially with symmetrical small-joint symptoms.

  • ANA(+) → suggests a connective-tissue process; pattern and titer matter; often followed by reflex panels.

  • HLA-B27(+) with inflammatory back pain → supports spondyloarthritis, but is not diagnostic by itself.

  • Normal markers do not exclude arthritis; osteoarthritis and some early autoimmune cases can have normal labs.

Always interpret labs with a qualified healthcare professional.


Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Start with a panel when symptoms are unclear or systemic (broad screening across inflammation + autoimmunity).

  • Add individual markers to sharpen a suspected diagnosis (e.g., anti-CCP for RA, HLA-B27 for AS, uric acid for gout).

  • Use repeat testing to monitor disease activity or response to care, as guided by your clinician.


FAQs

What blood tests check for arthritis?
Common rheumatology labs include CRP, ESR, RF, anti-CCP, ANA, HLA-B27, uric acid, plus CBC/CMP for context.

Can blood tests diagnose arthritis on their own?
No. They support diagnosis alongside symptoms, physical exam, and imaging such as X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI.

How do RA and OA differ in blood work?
RA often shows elevated CRP/ESR and RF/anti-CCP positivityosteoarthritis is usually seronegative with normal inflammatory markers.

Should I stop medicines before testing?
Do not change medications unless your clinician advises it. Some drugs can affect inflammatory markers; follow your provider’s instructions.

How soon will I see results?
Most arthritis test results are available within 24–48 hours after your blood draw.

Do I need a referral?
No referral is required to order through Ulta Lab Tests. Review results with your clinician for diagnosis and next steps.

How often should I retest?
Frequency depends on diagnosis and treatment goals. Many patients repeat CRP/ESR or disease-specific markers to monitor activity—follow clinician guidance.


Internal Links & Cross-References

  • Arthritis Testing Hub

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Ankylosing Spondylitis

  • Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

  • Psoriatic Arthritis

  • Key  test pages (CRP, ESR, RF, anti-CCP, ANA, HLA-B27, Uric Acid, CBC, CMP)


Available Tests & Panels

Tip: Begin with a comprehensive arthritis panel for broad screening, then add targeted markers (e.g., anti-CCP, HLA-B27, uric acid) based on your symptoms and clinician input.


 

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The Cardiolipin IgA Antibody Test detects IgA antibodies to cardiolipin, helping assess clotting disorders, autoimmune disease, and vascular complications. High levels are often linked to antiphospholipid syndrome, pregnancy loss, or thrombotic conditions. This test provides insight into immune activity, coagulation balance, and systemic disorders influenced by antibody-mediated vascular dysfunction.

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Blood Draw

The Cardiolipin IgG Antibody Test detects IgG antibodies to cardiolipin, often associated with autoimmune disease. Abnormal results may indicate antiphospholipid syndrome, blood clotting disorders, or pregnancy complications. This test provides insight into thrombotic risk, vascular health, systemic inflammation, and immune activity linked to autoimmune conditions and antibody-mediated disease.

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Blood Draw

The Cardiolipin IgM Antibody Test measures IgM antibodies linked to antiphospholipid syndrome and autoimmune disorders. It helps evaluate unexplained blood clots, recurrent miscarriages, or abnormal clotting events. By detecting immune system activity against phospholipids, this test supports the assessment of vascular health, autoimmune activity, and risks related to thrombosis or systemic lupus erythematosus.

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Most Popular

The Chlamydia trachomatis RNA TMA Urine Test detects genetic material of C. trachomatis using transcription-mediated amplification (TMA), a highly sensitive method for diagnosing infection. Doctors order this noninvasive urine test for patients with symptoms like discharge, pain, or burning urination, or for routine STD screening. Results help confirm infection, guide treatment, and prevent complications such as infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, or transmission.

Varied
Phlebotomist
Also Known As: Chlamydia Trachomatis Test, Chlamydia STD Test, Chlamydia Urine Test

The Complement Component C3c and C4c Test measures levels of two key proteins in the complement system, which supports immune defense and inflammation control. Abnormal results may indicate autoimmune disease, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or certain infections. Doctors use this test to investigate unexplained inflammation, monitor disease activity, and guide treatment decisions in patients with suspected immune or inflammatory disorders.

Also Known As: C3 and C4 Test, Complement C3 and C4 Test, Complement Test

The Complement Component C4c Test measures blood levels of C4c, a protein in the complement system that supports immune defense and inflammation control. Abnormal levels may indicate autoimmune disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or immune complex disease, as well as certain kidney conditions. Doctors use this test to evaluate complement activation, confirm diagnosis, and monitor treatment response in patients with suspected immune-related diseases.

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Also Known As: C4 Test, Complement C4 Test, Complement Test

The Complement Total CH50 Test measures overall activity of the complement system, a key part of the immune response that helps fight infections and regulate inflammation. Abnormal results may indicate autoimmune diseases such as lupus, complement deficiencies, or immune complex disorders. Doctors use this blood test to evaluate immune function, investigate recurrent infections, and monitor treatment in patients with suspected immune or autoimmune conditions.

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Also Known As: Total Complement Test, Total Complement Activity Test

Most Popular

The Cortisol AM Test measures morning cortisol levels in blood to evaluate adrenal gland function and stress response. Cortisol peaks in the morning, making this test critical for detecting adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease), Cushing’s syndrome, or other hormone imbalances. Doctors also use it to investigate fatigue, weight changes, or high blood pressure. This test provides important insight into endocrine health, metabolism, and long-term stress regulation.

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Also Known As: Morning Cortisol Test

The Creatine Kinase (CK) Total Test measures CK enzyme levels in blood to detect muscle injury, inflammation, or stress. Elevated CK may indicate muscle disorders, heart attack, strenuous exercise, or conditions such as rhabdomyolysis, while low levels are less common. Doctors use this test to evaluate unexplained muscle pain, weakness, or chest pain and to monitor recovery. It provides insight into muscle, cardiac, and overall metabolic health.

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Also Known As: CK Total Test, Creatine Phosphokinase, CPK Test

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The DHEA Sulfate (DHEA-S) Test measures levels of DHEA-S, a hormone made by the adrenal glands, to evaluate adrenal function and hormone balance. It helps detect adrenal tumors, hyperplasia, or insufficiency and assess abnormal hair growth, infertility, or early/late puberty. Doctors also use it to investigate irregular menstrual cycles, monitor androgen disorders, and evaluate symptoms of hormone imbalance affecting reproductive and metabolic health.

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Also Known As: DHEA Sulfate Test, Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate Test

Most Popular

The Ferritin Test measures ferritin, a protein that stores iron in the body, to evaluate iron levels and detect deficiency or overload. It helps diagnose anemia, iron deficiency, hemochromatosis, and chronic disease-related inflammation. Doctors often order the ferritin test to investigate fatigue, weakness, or unexplained symptoms. It is also used to monitor iron supplementation, treatment effectiveness, and overall iron metabolism health.

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Also Known As: Iron Storage Test

Most Popular

The Neisseria gonorrhoeae RNA TMA Urine Test detects gonorrhea infection by identifying bacterial RNA using transcription-mediated amplification. This highly sensitive urine test helps diagnose current gonorrhea infections, even in asymptomatic cases. Doctors use it for early detection, accurate diagnosis, and timely treatment to prevent complications. Results support effective STD management and help reduce the risk of transmission.

Varied
Phlebotomist
Also Known As: GC Test, Neisseria Gonorrhoeae test, Gonorrhoeae test, Gonorrhea Urine Test

The Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) Test measures average blood glucose over 2–3 months by detecting sugar attached to hemoglobin in red blood cells. It is used to diagnose diabetes, identify prediabetes, and monitor long-term blood sugar control. Doctors rely on the HbA1c test to evaluate treatment effectiveness, guide adjustments, and assess risk for complications, making it essential for diabetes care and metabolic health screening.

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Also Known As: A1c Test, HbA1c Test, Glycated Hemoglobin Test

Most Popular

The Immunoglobulin E (IgE) Test measures IgE antibody levels in blood to evaluate allergic reactions, asthma, and immune response. Elevated IgE may indicate allergies to food, pollen, or other triggers, as well as eczema or parasitic infections. Doctors order this test to investigate symptoms like hives, sneezing, or wheezing and to guide allergy treatment. Results provide vital insight into immune health, allergic sensitivity, and overall diagnostic care.

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Also Known As: Immunoglobulin E Test, Immunoglobulin E Antibody Test, IgE Antibody Test

Most Popular

The Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Test measures IgG antibody levels in blood to assess immune system function and long-term response to infections. Low IgG may indicate immune deficiencies or recurrent infections, while high levels may signal chronic inflammation, autoimmune disease, or certain infections. Doctors use this test to evaluate unexplained illness, monitor immune disorders, or assess overall immunity. Results provide vital insight into immune health and disease management.

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Also Known As: Immunoglobulin G Test, Immunoglobulin G Antibody Test, IgG Antibody Test

Most Popular

The Immunoglobulin A (IgA) Test measures IgA antibody levels in blood to evaluate immune system health and mucosal defense in the respiratory and digestive tracts. Low IgA may indicate immune deficiency, celiac disease, or recurrent infections, while high levels may suggest autoimmune disorders, liver disease, or chronic inflammation. Doctors use this test to assess unexplained illness or immune imbalance. Results provide key insight into antibody function and overall immunity.

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Also Known As: Immunoglobulin A Test, Immunoglobulin A Antibody Test, IgA Antibody Test

Most Popular

The Insulin Test measures insulin levels in blood to assess how the body regulates glucose and metabolism. It helps diagnose insulin resistance, hypoglycemia, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Doctors also use it to evaluate pancreatic function and monitor treatment effectiveness. Frequently ordered with glucose testing, the insulin test provides critical insight into endocrine health, blood sugar control, and risk for diabetes-related complications.

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Also Known As: Fasting Insulin Blood Test

The Lyme Disease IgG IgM Antibodies Immunoblot Test detects antibodies to Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria causing Lyme disease. IgM indicates recent infection, while IgG suggests past or ongoing infection. Doctors order this test to confirm exposure after ELISA screening or when symptoms such as rash, fatigue, joint pain, or neurological issues appear. Results provide critical insight for diagnosing and managing Lyme disease with greater accuracy.

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Also Known As: Borrelia burgdorferi Test, Lyme Disease Antibodies Test

The Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (aPTT) Test measures how long it takes blood to clot, evaluating clotting factors and overall coagulation function. Abnormal results may indicate bleeding disorders, hemophilia, liver disease, or clotting factor deficiencies. Doctors also use this test to monitor patients on heparin therapy. Results provide essential insight into blood clotting, bleeding risk, and treatment management for safe medical care.

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Also Known As: aPTT Test, PTT Test

The Protein Total and Albumin Test measures overall protein levels and albumin, the main blood protein made by the liver. Abnormal levels may indicate liver disease, kidney disorders, malnutrition, or chronic inflammation. Doctors order this test for patients with swelling, fatigue, or abnormal lab results. Results provide critical insight into nutritional status, liver and kidney function, and help guide diagnosis and treatment of metabolic or chronic conditions.

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Blood Draw

The Prothrombin Time with INR Test measures how long it takes blood to clot and calculates the international normalized ratio (INR) for accuracy. It is commonly used to monitor patients on blood-thinning medications like warfarin and to evaluate bleeding disorders, liver disease, or vitamin K deficiency. Doctors order this test to investigate easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, or prolonged bleeding and to ensure safe and effective anticoagulant therapy.

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Also Known As: PT with INR Test

The RNP Antibody Test detects antibodies to ribonucleoprotein, an autoantigen linked to connective tissue and autoimmune diseases. Elevated levels may indicate mixed connective tissue disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, or other autoimmune disorders. This test provides valuable insight into immune system activity and is often performed alongside ANA and ENA panels for a broader evaluation of autoimmune health.

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The Salicylate Test measures salicylate levels in the blood to evaluate therapeutic use or potential toxicity from aspirin and related medications. Elevated concentrations may indicate overdose, metabolic disturbance, or risk of salicylate poisoning. This test supports monitoring in patients treated for pain, inflammation, or cardiovascular conditions and helps guide clinical management of suspected overdose cases.

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The Testosterone Free and Total Test measures total testosterone and free, bioavailable testosterone in blood for both men and women. It helps diagnose hormone imbalance, infertility, low libido, erectile dysfunction in men, irregular periods, or PCOS in women. Doctors also order it to assess fatigue, mood changes, or muscle weakness and to monitor hormone therapy. This test provides key insight into reproductive, endocrine, and overall metabolic health.

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Also Known As: Bound and Unbound Testosterone, Uncapped Testosterone Test

The Thiopurine Metabolites Test evaluates active metabolites of thiopurine drugs, including 6-thioguanine nucleotides and 6-methylmercaptopurine, to assess treatment effectiveness and safety. Elevated or low metabolite levels may indicate risk of toxicity, under-dosing, or non-adherence. This test provides critical insight for managing patients on immunosuppressive therapy, guiding personalized dosing, and monitoring long-term response.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: 6 MMP Test, 6 Tg Test

Reactive arthritis is generally an autoimmune condition. It gets its name for the fact that it usually occurs as a reaction to an infection somewhere in the body. Apart from being uncommon, it’s a painful type of inflammatory arthritis that targets the lower back, fingers, toes, heels, and joints, such as ankles or in the heels. Additionally, it is linked with inflammation of the eyes, urethra, and sometimes mucous membranes and skin.  

In most cases, two kinds of bacteria cause reactive arthritis, bacteria involved with genital infections and bacteria involved with intestinal infections. The bacterium that brings about chlamydia, Chlamydia trachomatis, is regarded to be a trigger of reactive arthritis. However, it can be triggered by certain intestinal infections, as well as other sexually transmitted diseases. Common intestinal pathogens, such as Yersinia, Salmonella, Shigella, and Campylobacter, are usually the cause of food contamination.  

As aforementioned, reactive arthritis is quite uncommon, and not all people who develop one of these infections will get reactive arthritis. Genetic and gender predisposition are some of the risk factors when it comes to reactive arthritis. In most cases, the disorder is seen in men between 20-50 years, although it can happen at any age. Although it occurs rarely, women can also acquire reactive arthritis.  

Specific individuals are at an increased risk since they are positive for HLA-B27, which is a protein (named HLA or human leukocyte antigen) that is commonly found on cell surfaces. Also, the gene that typically codes for the HLA-B27 is approximated to be available in about 65%-96% of people with reactive arthritis. Still, HLA-B27 is found in only around 6% of the entire U.S. population. While having HLA-B27 is one of the risk factors for reactive arthritis, there is still some likelihood for individuals who are negative to HLA-B27 to get reactive arthritis, and it might be that other genetic factors are considered.  

Signs and Symptoms

For reactive arthritis, the signs and symptoms might include swelling and pain in several joints that occur suddenly 1-4 weeks after the infection. Non-joint inflammation might occur in the eyes as conjunctivitis, the skin, the urinary tract (bladder, urethra prostate gland), reproductive organs, or mouth. Symptoms might disappear spontaneously and won’t recur, or the condition might persist.  

Around one-third of the people who get reactive arthritis will also go through the following: 

  • Conjunctivitis or Uveitis: The inflammation of the thin membrane covering the eyeballs and lines of the inner eye (uveitis) or the eyelids (conjunctiva). Typically, conjunctivitis causes itching and redness, whereas uveitis is more severe and causes light sensitivity, blurring of vision, pain, and redness in the eye.  
  • Urethritis: The inflammation of the tube that joins the bladder to the exterior part of the body (urethra). Usually, this leads to discharge that is visible in the vaginal area or at the tip of the penis. Also, it causes pain or burning during urination. Men might also have inflammation of the prostate gland (called prostatitis), while women might experience inflammation of the cervix (known as cervicitis), even though urethritis is usually absent in women.  
  • Arthritis: Swelling, redness, and pain generally affecting the feet, ankles, and the knees; usually leads to heel pain; often associated with buttock and lower back pain; can cause swollen toes and fingers; can cause spondylitis (inflammation of the joints within the spine’s vertebrae) 
  • Certain skin symptoms can also be associated with reactive arthritis, such as painless penile sessions, rash, ulcers, and bumps on palms of the hands or soles of the feet. 

Laboratory Tests 

There is no single test available to diagnose reactive arthritis. Therefore, a diagnosis is often based on the individual’s signs and symptoms, like swelling or pain in affected joints, and proof of a past or current infection. Furthermore, healthcare practitioners might suggest the following tests to assist in confirming the diagnosis: 

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): To examine for inflammation, enhanced with reactive arthritis and other diseases.  

HLA-B27 antigen: To look for a protein that is commonly found on cell surfaces. If found positive for this protein, it means a higher than average risk of acquiring specific autoimmune disorders, such as reactive arthritis. 

C-reactive protein (CRP): To examine for inflammation, enhanced with reactive arthritis and other diseases. 

Additionally, healthcare practitioners might order other tests to figure out the infection that caused the reaction; these include: 

Chlamydia test: To look for proof of the bacterium called Chlamydia trachomatis. In case it’s positive, considering early treatment could lower arthritis progression.  

Synovial Fluid Analysis: To check for an infection in the joint.  

Urinalysis and Urine Culture: To identify a urinary tract infection.  

Stool Culture: To check for Yersinia, E. coli, Campylobacter, and Salmonella 

HIV Test: To find out if someone is HIV-positive. However, it is generally known that reactive arthritis is associated with other infections to which those infected with HIV have been more exposed to instead of HIV infection itself. 

Some tests might be recommended to rule out other reasons for the symptoms: 

Antinuclear antibody (ANA): To assist in ruling out other diseases, like lupus 

Rheumatoid factor (RF): To assist in ruling out other diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis