Rheumatoid factor (RF) is the auto antibody generated against IgG due to the activation of B cells when the human body is exposed to an antigen. These were first identified in Rheumatoid arthritis and 80% of Rheumatoid arthritis cases are seropositive for RF.
Activation of B cells releases anti IgG (Rheumatoid Factor). RF and IgG complex triggers the entire immune system which attracts Leukocytes and stimulates the release of mediators.
Thus resulting in the inflammatory damage to the Synovium, small blood vessels and collagen. Finally joint destruction occurs which is permanent. The presence of RF in the blood indicates an autoimmune disease.
High titre of RF is also observed in certain unrelated diseases such as viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, Sarcoidosis, Lupus, Cancer, Cryoglobulinemia, inflammatory lung disease and Leprosy.
When does the RF test be ordered?
The doctor may order RF tests when they suspect any autoimmune conditions.
When there is symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis such as
- Joint stiffness in the morning,
- Fatigue and joint inflammation,
- Pain, warmth and swelling etc.
Uses of RF test
The presence / absence, titres and isotopes have important indications in the diagnosis and prognosis of Rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatoid factor level in the serum is useful as a part of making initial diagnosis. But a positive RF test always doesn’t mean that the patient is suffering from Rheumatoid arthritis.
The results of the tests are taken into account and the diagnosis is determined more importantly with the symptoms and clinical examinations.
Some of the assay techniques for quantifying RF are:
- Immunoturbidimetry assay
- Nephelometry
- Latex reaction test
- Immunoenzymatic test methods
Everlife CPC offers identi Rheumatoid factor test kit for quantifying the levels of RF in the serum. The ready to use antisera – high sensitive reagent is compatible with any biochemistry analyzer.