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How To Rule Out Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Question: My doctor ordered blood work because of discomfort in my feet when I wake up and popping tendons in both of my middle fingers in the morning. I am a long distance runner in good shape. It is not plantar facitis. I got a copy of the results but my appointment isn't for another 2 weeks. On the rheumatoid panel there is a value within normal limits. My question is: Is there a normal value and it is benign or does this mean I fall into the normal limit for having rheumatoid arthritis?
Brief Answer:
Test values vary from lab to lab. Less chance of severe Rheumatoid arthriti
Detailed Answer:
Hi there.
Kindly list the tests done in the Rheumatoid panel so that I can suggest other important tests if not included in the panel already.
Normal values of the Rheumatoid panel will vary from lab to lab. The values will be printed in the report.
If your test values have fallen in normal range then less chance of you suffering from severe arthritis or Rheumatoid type.
If Rheumatoid factor is not high, then it means that you do not have a severe form if Rheumatoid arthritis.
The most specific test is anti-CCP antibiodies estimation. Usually less than 20 is normal and more than 20 indicates that you have Rheumatoid arthritis.
You could get an Xray to look for a Calcaneal spur such can cause symptoms similar to Plantar fascitis. Also arthritis of the ankle can contribute.
I hope I have answered your query.
I will be available to answer your follow up queries.
Regards,
Dr. Aashish Raghu
Test values vary from lab to lab. Less chance of severe Rheumatoid arthriti
Detailed Answer:
Hi there.
Kindly list the tests done in the Rheumatoid panel so that I can suggest other important tests if not included in the panel already.
Normal values of the Rheumatoid panel will vary from lab to lab. The values will be printed in the report.
If your test values have fallen in normal range then less chance of you suffering from severe arthritis or Rheumatoid type.
If Rheumatoid factor is not high, then it means that you do not have a severe form if Rheumatoid arthritis.
The most specific test is anti-CCP antibiodies estimation. Usually less than 20 is normal and more than 20 indicates that you have Rheumatoid arthritis.
You could get an Xray to look for a Calcaneal spur such can cause symptoms similar to Plantar fascitis. Also arthritis of the ankle can contribute.
I hope I have answered your query.
I will be available to answer your follow up queries.
Regards,
Dr. Aashish Raghu
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Sonia Raina
Answered by
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