Rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-CCP test in Bhubaneswar
What the test measures
Rheumatoid factor is an antibody against your own IgG antibodies. Anti-CCP (anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide) detects antibodies against citrullinated proteins, which are characteristic of RA.
When your doctor may order it
- Pain and swelling in several small joints of the hands or feet
- Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
- Assessing the outlook of newly diagnosed RA
Understanding the result
A positive anti-CCP strongly supports RA, and people who are positive for both RF and anti-CCP tend to have more active disease that benefits from early treatment. RF can be positive in older people, in Sjögren’s syndrome and in some infections. About a third of people with early RA test negative for both, so a normal result does not rule RA out.
This page gives general information. Your result must be interpreted by your doctor together with your symptoms and examination.
Seeing a rheumatologist?
Early treatment of RA prevents joint damage. OARC’s rheumatologists start and monitor treatment.
Related tests
Frequently asked questions
Can I have rheumatoid arthritis with a negative RF?
Yes. Seronegative RA is common, especially early on. Diagnosis is based on the pattern of joint swelling, examination and other tests, not on blood tests alone.
Is anti-CCP better than RF?
Anti-CCP is more specific for RA, so a positive result is more meaningful. Doctors usually order both together.
Book a test or home sample collection
Share your doctor’s prescription on WhatsApp and our team will confirm a collection slot at OARC Saheed Nagar, OARC Sailashree Vihar or your home.