Rheumatoid factor blood test

A rheumatoid factor test involves using a needle to take a small sample of blood from your arm. It's normally carried out by a phlebotomist and takes a few minutes. After the test, your sample will be sent to a laboratory for testing.

If your HCA UK GP or consultant is looking to find out if you have rheumatoid arthritis, they may also recommend other tests for anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA), anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies, c-reactive proteins (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR or sed rate).

There isn't any special preparation required for a rheumatoid factor test. It normally takes a few minutes and you should be able to home straight away.

Your HCA UK GP or consultant rheumatologist will explain your blood test results during a post-test appointment. This appointment will usually take place seven to 14 days after your blood test.

A positive rheumatoid factor test result is usually a sign of high levels of rheumatoid factors in your blood. This is normally a sign of rheumatoid arthritis or another autoimmune disease. However, your GP or consultant may recommend further tests to confirm a diagnosis.