Rheumatoid Arthritis - Basic Plus Most Popular

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The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: ANA, ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern IFA, ANA with Reflux

ANA Screen, IFA

The antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is ordered to help screen for autoimmune disorders and is most often used as one of the tests to diagnose systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Also known as: C-Reactive Protein, CReactive Protein CRP, CRP

C-REACTIVE PROTEIN

C-reactive protein is produced by the liver. The level of CRP rises when there is inflammation throughout the body.

Also known as: ACPA, Anti-CCP, Anti-citrulline Antibody, Anti-cyclic Citrullinated Peptide, Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (CCP) Antibody IgG, CCP, CCP Antibody, Citrullinated Peptide (CCP) IgG, Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Antibody, Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide CCP Antibody IgG

Cyclic Citrullinated

Also known as: RF

Rheumatoid Factor

Rheumatoid factor (RF) is a blood test that measures the amount of the RF antibody in the blood. An abnormal result means the test is positive, which means higher levels of rheumatoid factor have been detected in your blood. Most patients with rheumatoid arthritis or Sjogren syndrome have positive RF tests. The higher the level, the more likely one of these conditions is present. Not everyone with higher levels of rheumatoid factor has rheumatoid arthritis or Sjogren syndrome.

Also known as: ESR, SED RATE, Sed Rate by Modified Westergren ESR

Sed Rate By Modified

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is an indirect measure of the degree of inflammation present in the body. It actually measures the rate of fall (sedimentation) of erythrocytes (red blood cells) in a sample of blood.

Also known as: Serum Urate, UA

Uric Acid

Uric acid is a chemical created when the body breaks down substances called purines. Purines are found in some foods and drinks. These include liver, anchovies, mackerel, dried beans and peas, and beer. Most uric acid dissolves in blood and travels to the kidneys. From there, it passes out in urine. If your body produces too much uric acid or doesn't remove enough if it, you can get sick. A high level of uric acid in the blood is called hyperuricemia.
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The Rheumatoid Arthritis - Basic Plus panel contains 6 tests with 6 biomarkers.

Brief Description: The Rheumatoid Arthritis - Basic Plus Panel is an expanded diagnostic tool designed to provide a more comprehensive assessment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and related conditions. By evaluating key biomarkers associated with inflammation, autoimmunity, and joint health, this panel aids in the diagnosis and monitoring of RA. It is instrumental for clinicians in identifying RA at an early stage, assessing the disease's activity level, and formulating a tailored treatment approach.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Whole Blood and Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required

Important: This panel contains ANA Screen IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern #249 which is a Reflex test. If ANA Screen, IFA is positive, then ANA Titer and Pattern will be performed at an additional charge of $24.95

When and Why the Panel May Be Ordered

This panel is typically ordered when symptoms suggestive of RA are present, such as joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion, especially if these symptoms are more pronounced in the morning. It may also be recommended for individuals with a family history of RA or when initial testing indicates potential RA or related autoimmune conditions. The panel's broad scope helps differentiate RA from other forms of arthritis and autoimmune diseases.

What the Rheumatoid Arthritis - Basic Plus Panel Checks For

The Basic Plus panel examines several crucial biomarkers:

  • ANA Screen, IFA with Reflex to Titer and Pattern: Identifies antinuclear antibodies, indicative of a systemic autoimmune reaction, which can occur in various autoimmune diseases, including RA.

  • C-Reactive Protein (CRP): A marker of inflammation that can indicate active disease states in RA and other inflammatory conditions.

  • Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (CCP) IgG Antibody: Highly specific to RA, the presence of anti-CCP antibodies is a strong predictor of the disease and can signify more aggressive disease progression.

  • Rheumatoid Factor: An antibody found in many RA patients, its presence supports the diagnosis of RA, although it can also be seen in other conditions.

  • Sed Rate: Also known as erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), this test measures the rate at which red blood cells sediment in a period of one hour, indicating the presence of inflammation.

  • Uric Acid: Elevated levels can be associated with gout, a condition that can coexist with RA or mimic some of its symptoms, making it important for differential diagnosis.

Expanding Health Insights with Advanced Panels

For individuals requiring an even more detailed assessment:

  • The Rheumatoid Arthritis - Advanced Panel builds upon the Basic Plus by incorporating a Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets and a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel. These additions offer insights into overall health, organ function, and potential medication side effects, crucial for managing RA comprehensively.

  • The Rheumatoid Arthritis - Comprehensive Panel further extends the evaluation to include Rheumatoid Factor IgA and IgG, providing a nuanced view of the rheumatoid factor's profile. This panel represents the most thorough assessment, supporting clinicians in the intricate management of RA and associated conditions.

Conditions and Diseases Detected

The Basic Plus Panel facilitates the detection and differentiation of:

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: By identifying specific autoantibodies and markers of inflammation, aiding in early diagnosis and treatment planning.

  • Autoimmune Disorders: The presence of ANA and elevated CRP levels can indicate systemic autoimmune activity beyond RA.

Clinical Applications

Healthcare professionals utilize this panel's results to confirm RA diagnosis, assess disease activity, and inform treatment decisions. Management strategies may include disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologic agents, and lifestyle adjustments, with regular monitoring to gauge treatment efficacy and adjust as necessary.

The Rheumatoid Arthritis - Basic Plus Panel offers a critical step forward in the accurate diagnosis and effective management of rheumatoid arthritis. By providing a broader spectrum of diagnostic tests, this panel enables healthcare providers to gain deeper insights into a patient's condition, facilitating early intervention, personalized treatment plans, and improved patient outcomes in the management of RA and related autoimmune conditions.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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