RA Factor Normal Range: Test Price, Report Negative Means

The rheumatoid factor or the RA factor test means the blood test that measures the presence and level of rheumatoid factor in the blood. Rheumatoid factor is an autoantibody protein produced by the immune system. 

It is found in the blood of individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. This autoimmune disease affects the joints. Rheumatoid factors attack healthy tissues in

the body. It often begins in small joints and can spread to larger ones if not treated. If left untreated, it can damage joints, leading to pain and disability. 

Furthermore, people with autoimmune diseases may sometimes have an RA factor normal range. Therefore, RA factor testing is usually done with other tests to help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune disorders.

The RA factor test is recommended for individuals with signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms usually begin in the hands, wrists, and feet, affecting the same joints on both sides. The test may be recommended for the following:

1. Patients with symptoms such as:

1. Joint pain

2. Swelling, tenderness, and inflammation in the joints

3. Joint stiffness that lasts for more than 30 minutes

4. General fatigue

5. Loss of appetite

6. Intermittent fever

7. Dry eyes and mouth

8. Firm lumps under the skin

2. Individuals with a family history of RA or autoimmune diseases

3. Patients with a history of joint involvement or joint damage

4. Individuals previously diagnosed with RA require monitoring of disease activity or treatment response

The RA factor test is also performed for patients needing a differential diagnosis to rule out other conditions that may show similar symptoms and cause high levels of rheumatoid factors, such as:

1. Other autoimmune disorders like:

1. Sjӧgren syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that affects the moisture-producing glands in the eyes and mouth.

2. Lupus: A chronic autoimmune disease affecting multiple organs and tissues in the body.

3. Scleroderma: It is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes thickening and tightening of the skin and other tissues.

4. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis: It is a type of arthritis that occurs in children under the age of 16. It involves inflammation of the joints.

2. Certain types of cancer, including leukaemia (cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood, resulting in the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells)

The RA factor test is a diagnostic tool that offers several benefits in evaluating rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune conditions. The benefits of the test include the following:

1. A quick, simple, noninvasive procedure

2. No fasting required

3. No other special preparations are required

4. No aftercare required

5. Minimal risks

6. Helps in early detection of RA

7. Confirms RA diagnosis in conjunction with other clinical findings

8. Helps monitor disease activity

Speak with your healthcare provider, who will assess your symptoms and medical history. They will determine if the RA factor test is necessary.

1. Fasting Not Required: In most cases, there are no specific fasting or dietary restrictions before a RA factor test. However, it’s always best to follow any instructions from the healthcare provider or the laboratory conducting the test.

2. Medication Review: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you currently take, as certain drugs can affect the test results.

3. Blood Test Appointment: Schedule a convenient time for the blood test at a clinic or laboratory recommended by your healthcare provider.

4. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose or short sleeves that can make it easier to access the vein.

5. Relax and Stay Hydrated: Being well-hydrated can make locating and drawing your blood easier. Try to stay calm and relaxed to make the blood draw process smoother.

The RA factor test is a simple blood test that takes less than five minutes. The specific procedure for the RA factor test may vary slightly depending on the laboratory. However, the patient can generally expect the following steps during the test:

1. The patient will be made to sit comfortably in a chair at the doctor’s clinic, hospital, or diagnostic centre.

2. A phlebotomist will tie an elastic band tightly across the patient’s upper arm to make their veins swell with blood. 

3. They will disinfect the area with an antiseptic solution.  

4. Once they find a vein, they will insert a small needle into the vein. 

5. After inserting the needle, a small amount of blood will be collected in a test tube. 

6. The patient may experience a slight pricking sensation as the needle is inserted and withdrawn.

7. Once enough blood is collected, the needle will be removed. 

8. The provider will place pressure and bandage on the puncture wound to stop bleeding. 

9. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis. 

The RA factor report is usually available within a few days. The healthcare provider will schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the results and further steps. There are also no restrictions on diet and activities after RA factor testing. Aftercare of the test includes:

1. Rest and Hydrate: After the blood test, take a moment to rest and hydrate yourself by drinking water or a non-caffeinated beverage. This can help prevent dizziness or lightheadedness.

2. Keep the Bandage: The phlebotomist will typically place a bandage over the site where they drew blood. Leave the bandage in place for a few hours to help stop bleeding and reduce the risk of infection.

3. Avoid Strenuous Activities: Refrain from strenuous physical activities or heavy lifting for a few hours after the test to minimize the risk of bruising or bleeding from the puncture site.

4. Take Medications as Prescribed: If your healthcare provider advised you to stop or adjust any medications before the test, follow their instructions for resuming your regular medication schedule.

The healthcare professional will interpret the test results and discuss the findings during the follow-up appointment. They will explain the significance of the results and answer any queries based on the test results.

Interpretation of RA Factor Test

The RA factor test normal range can vary depending on the laboratory and the testing method. Generally, a normal RA factor value is less than 15 mIU/mL (milli-international units per millilitre). 

The RA factor normal range for females and males is the same. 

RA Factor Above Normal

If the result is above the normal value, it is positive. A positive result may indicate the presence of rheumatoid factor in the blood. It does not always mean that rheumatoid factors are causing the symptoms.

The higher the level of rheumatoid factor in the blood, the higher the chances of an autoimmune disease, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. High RA factor is associated with the following diseases:

1. Sjögren Syndrome: It is an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the salivary and tear glands. However, it can also lead to systemic inflammation, causing the immune system to produce RA factor and contributing to high RA factor levels.

2. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: This is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. In SLE, the immune system can produce antibodies, including RA factor, that target the body's cells and tissues, leading to elevated RA factor levels.

3. Chronic Infections: Hepatitis C is a chronic infection that can stimulate the immune system over a long period. This continuous immune response can increase levels of RA factor in the blood.

4. Inflammatory Lung Diseases, like Sarcoidosis: It can cause inflammation in the lungs and throughout the body. This inflammation can trigger the production of RA factor.

5. Cancer: The presence of cancerous cells in the body can trigger a high RA (Rheumatoid Arthritis) factor. This occurs because the immune system may mistakenly attack cancer cells, causing inflammation and leading to an elevated RA factor.

RA Factor Below Normal

A normal result is considered negative, meaning no rheumatoid factor is detected in the blood. However, a negative value does not necessarily rule out the possibility of RA. Some individuals with RA may have negative RA factor test results.

The RA factor test alone may not be able to diagnose any health problems. The healthcare provider will develop an appropriate treatment plan if the patient is diagnosed with RA.

Treatment of RA Factor Above Normal

If the RA factor test results are positive, it indicates the presence of RA antibodies. The healthcare provider may recommend further evaluation (blood tests, imaging studies, or other diagnostic procedures) or monitoring to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the condition. 

1. Medications: Doctors may prescribe medications to manage high RA factor levels, depending on the underlying cause. For autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, medicines that suppress the immune system are commonly used.

2. Antiviral Drugs: In the case of chronic infections like Hepatitis C, antiviral drugs may be prescribed to treat the infection and, in turn, reduce RA factor levels.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Inflammatory lung diseases and autoimmune conditions can benefit from anti-inflammatory drugs like corticosteroids. It reduces inflammation and, consequently, RA factor levels.

4. Chemotherapy or Radiation: For cancer-related high RA factor, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be necessary to target and eliminate cancer cells, subsequently normalising RA factor levels.

5. Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can play a crucial role in managing high RA factor levels. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and quitting smoking if applicable.

Like any medical test, risks are associated with the RA factor test too. However, the RA factor test is considered safe and low-risk. The risks include:

1. Discomfort: The RA factor test typically involves a blood draw, which may cause temporary discomfort or pain at the needle insertion site. However, this risk is generally minimal and well-tolerated by most patients.
2. Rare Risks: As with any blood draw, there is a small risk of infection, bruising, bleeding, or other complications at the needle insertion site. However, these risks are rare and typically minimal.
3. Inaccurate Results: Errors in sample collection, handling, transportation, or laboratory processing can lead to inaccurate test results. This can result in misinterpretation of the results and may require repeat testing.
4. False positive or false negative results: The RA factor test can produce false positive or false negative results. The test may incorrectly indicate the presence or absence of RA. This can result in delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis.

Cost of RA Factor Test

The approximate RA factor test price in India ranges between ₹ 250 and ₹ 1000. The RA factor test cost may differ based on several factors where the test is performed.

 Below are the factors to be considered:

1. Insurance coverage is a significant factor; some insurance plans may cover blood tests as part of preventive measures.

2. Geographical location plays a role, as tests in urban areas or places with a higher cost of living tend to be more expensive.

3. Additional tests like anti-CCP antibody, Anti-nuclear antibody, and CRP tests may be necessary for accurate diagnosis and can increase the total cost.

4. The laboratory performing the test may charge extra fees, such as processing or handling fees, which can further raise the overall cost of the test.

The RA factor test is crucial for identifying and treating rheumatoid arthritis.  Understanding the RA factor range enables personalized treatment planning for rheumatoid arthritis.

At HexaHealth, we strive to resolve all your queries related to medical journeys, big or small. We will help you with your appointments, consultations, and insurance formalities and connect you with the best doctors at the best hospitals. Consult a healthcare provider at HexaHealth TODAY to learn more about the RA factor test.

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