From the Guidelines
A rheumatology workup should include an autoimmune blood panel with ANA, RF, anti-CCP, and inflammatory markers such as ESR and CRP, as well as consideration of HLA B27 testing if symptoms are suggestive of reactive arthritis or affect the spine. When evaluating a patient with potential rheumatologic conditions, it is essential to consider the results of these blood tests in the context of the patient's clinical presentation and history. The autoimmune blood panel helps to identify specific autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus, and other connective tissue diseases, by detecting characteristic patterns of autoantibodies and inflammation 1. Key components of the autoimmune blood panel include:
- ANA (antinuclear antibody) to evaluate for systemic lupus and other connective tissue diseases
- RF (rheumatoid factor) to evaluate for rheumatoid arthritis
- Anti-CCP (anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide) to evaluate for rheumatoid arthritis
- ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C-reactive protein) as inflammatory markers Additionally, HLA B27 testing may be considered if symptoms are suggestive of reactive arthritis or affect the spine 1. It is crucial to interpret the results of these blood tests in the context of the patient's clinical presentation, medical history, and physical examination findings to make an accurate diagnosis and develop an effective treatment plan.
From the Research
Blood Tests in Rheumatology Workup
The following blood tests are commonly included in a rheumatology workup:
- Rheumatoid factor (RF) test 2
- Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibody test 3, 2
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test 3, 2, 4, 5
- C-reactive protein (CRP) test 3, 2, 4, 5
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) test, which includes parameters such as:
Uses of Blood Tests
These blood tests are used to: