Exams and Tests

No single lab test can diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. Instead, doctors look at symptoms and physical signs and then rule out other diseases that can cause similar symptoms.

A medical history and physical exam are usually done to help find the cause of joint pain. The pattern and nature of joint symptoms are the most important clues to the diagnosis.

Diagnosis is based on a set of classification criteria. The following tests may be done:

• Complete blood count
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (may help to assess disease activity)
• C-reactive protein (may help to assess disease activity)
• Rheumatoid factor
• Antinuclear antibody assay
• Anti-CCP (cyclic citrullinated peptide) antibody test (helps confirm diagnosis and may show your risk of having severe symptoms)
• Joint fluid analysis
• Tissue type test
• X-rays (see X-ray images of rheumatoid arthritis in the feet and in the hands)

Other tests may be done to check for side effects of treatment. These tests may include:

• Kidney function tests.
• Liver and muscle enzyme tests.
• Bone density test, to check for bone loss (osteoporosis).
• Eye exam.

Regular checkups

Because rheumatoid arthritis can lead to severe joint destruction and disability over time, regular checkups are important to see if treatment is working or needs to be adjusted.