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Home / Ask the Expert / Re: High RA factor but further test shows negative

Re: High RA factor but further test shows negative

April 26, 2007 By Arthritis Center

Question

Well, according to the rheumatologist, her joints show’s no sign of tenderness or swelling, nothing indicates the present of RA. But we went through a full health check anyway to find out anything wrong. Initial results shows no anomalies, but details report is not due in another week or so. Would a normal person have a RA factor of 719 ? is this consider very high?

Answer

It is considered high and it is possible to have this test result and still not have RA. The diagnossis of RA is dependent on the finding of swollen and tender joints. It is thought that the rheumatoid factor test becomes positive either together with or soon after the onset of symptoms. Thus, the longer you have a positive RF but no RA, the better off you are. Discuss with your doctor causes of a positive RF including some chronic infections.

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