Positive rheumatoid factor blood test: What does it mean?
Positive rheumatoid factor blood test: What does it mean?QuestionWhat conditions — other than rheumatoid arthritis — can cause a positive rheumatoid factor test? AnswerRheumatoid factors (RFs) are antibodies that attach to other antibodies and may trigger inflammation in the body. A positive rheumatoid factor test means that rheumatoid factor has been detected in your blood. This test is used mainly to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis (RA) — about 80 percent of people with RA test positive for rheumatoid factor. But other conditions also can cause a positive rheumatoid factor test, including:
In addition, rheumatoid factor can also be detected in healthy people. It's important to discuss with your doctor the significance of a positive rheumatoid factor test in your specific situation. RelatedLast Updated: 10/18/2006 © 1998-2013 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "Mayo Clinic Health Information," "Reliable information for a healthier life" and the triple-shield Mayo logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.
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