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As a adult if I tested negative by blood for having RA does that definetly mean I do not have it ?
My sister is 49 yrs old with alot of medical problems but the one big issue right now is does she have RA, the blood test showed negative, but she has all the other signs and symtoms, she can BARELY walk and has to use arm supported canes, she has severe pain and swelling of the joints , also her fingers are going all directions, crippling. I just wondered if just because 1 blood test showed negative if that means she does not have it or a doctor should not treat her as if she has RA to see if that helps her at all. My oldest son was diagnosed with juvinile RA when he was 12, but the RA did not show up in his blood test for a couple of years after the diagnose, I thought the it could be the same kind of situation for my sister ?
Hi Lori,
There are several lab tests that may indicate RA. But two of them, rheumatoid factor and SED rate are not always indicative of whether you have RA. Having a negative rhaumatoid factor doesn't mean that a person won't have it. Having a positive rheumatoid factor may indicate a higher probability of having a more moderate to severe disease course. I believe a SED rate is a measure of the white count, which would indicate autoimmune activity or inflammation. I'm RA factor negative, always have been and have never once had an elevated SED rate, yet I have RA. I think one of the newest tests for C-reactive protein may be a better indicator. But rheumatologists one use these lab tests as one factor in making the diagnosis. They will also look at history, phyisical evidence of inflammation, joint pain and stiffness, family history and x-rays or MRIs. On the other hand, the rheumatologist will also try to rule out other autoimmune disorders like lupus or fibromyalgia, etc or ailments with joint pain that can look like RA.
The RA page has a good description of the tests that are used to diagnose RA. That may be helpful for you. Under the 'Manage" heading at the top of this page, there is a section for tests and results. Under the "Find" header, there is also a good symptom checker.
Best wishes to you and your family.
Christine
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Lori, I am not a doctor but I can honestly say that I have experienced this. Five years ago I did not test positive for anything even though I have severe pain and swelling all over my body. Three years ago I tested positive for both ANA and Rheumatoid Factor. I have also spoken with many people who have received a diagnosis of RA despite their negative test results. The truth is that nobody knows your sisters body as well as her sister. And if she feels something is going on there, the she probably is right. Don't let her give up on fighting for a diagnosis. If I would have given up when the doctors told me nothing was wrong, then I would be in a wheelchair right now. Encourage her to keep going until she finds a doctor that she feels comfortable working with. And make sure she is able to express her concerns to her doctor. She is very lucky to have your support. Keep it up! Good luck, and best wishes!
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