Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, progressive autoimmune disease primarily affecting the joints and potentially other parts of the body. Its progression is typically categorized into four stages: early-stage RA, moderate-stage RA, severe RA, and end-stage RA. Symptoms may not be noticeable until the moderate stage.
Clinical evaluation by a rheumatologist and various lab tests are crucial for diagnosing and managing RA. One key test is the rheumatoid factor (RF) test, which measures the amount of rheumatoid factor in the blood. These proteins, produced by the immune system, can attack healthy tissue. High RF levels are often associated with autoimmune diseases like RA and Sjogren’s syndrome.
For a deeper understanding of the disease, refer to the comprehensive guide provided by Healthline on the stages and progression of RA, as well as the RA severity scale. Additionally, the Mayo Clinic provides detailed information on the rheumatoid factor test.
Normal C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, another important marker, are typically below 3.0 mg/L, although this can vary between labs. High-sensitivity CRP (hsCRP) tests can detect levels below 10.0 mg/L, aiding in RA assessment. For more on CRP levels in RA, visit Healthline. The normal range for RF is less than 14 IU/ml; values above this are considered high. For more details on RF tests and normal ranges, see MedicineNet and RheumatoidArthritis.org.
Rheumatoid arthritis can lead to joint pain, swelling, and deformity. As the disease progresses, the synovial membrane lining the joints becomes inflamed and thickened, causing fluid buildup and joint erosion. For an in-depth look at RA symptoms and causes, the Mayo Clinic offers valuable insights.
