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Key Labs for RA Diagnosis
- Order ESR, standard CRP (not highly sensitive), rheumatoid factor, and CCP antibody when evaluating suspected rheumatoid arthritis.
- Avoid ANA testing initially to prevent false positives and unnecessary further testing.
RA Epidemiology and Lab Patterns
- RA affects about 1% of adults and shows bimodal age incidence—more in women younger, equal in older adults.
- Most RA patients have elevated ESR; normal inflammatory markers reduce but do not exclude diagnosis.
Perform Detailed Joint Exam
- Carefully examine small joints for swelling or synovial thickening, especially MCP, PIP, wrists, elbows, and MTP joints.
- Check joint range of motion and for contractures to evaluate inflammatory arthritis.