Hi Jue

The tests that are done by the GPs, such as Rheumatoid Factor, are not done for RA diagnostic purposes and indeed a diagnosis cannot be made on these alone even if the RF test is positive. The only reliable test is the anti-CCP test done by a rheumatologist. This link will explain the test in some detail and this link from the NRAS site will also help answer questions about lab tests.

I had two friends diagnosed with Inflammatory Arthritis within two years of myself. In each case their's burned itself out within the first few years, mine didn't! There are many different types of Inflammatory Disease and each can be quite unique. My inflammatory markers were negative at the outset, but the anti-CCP wasn't available way back then. I had the anti-CCP checked recently with a view to changing medication and lo and behold I'm actually 'positive'! Probably have been since the start if the truth be known!

Your friend needs to be referred to rheumatology quickly if she suspects she may have RA. Have a look at this from the RA awareness campaign.

Hope your friend is able to get some help.

Lyn x

I finally got a diagnosis after my Consultant Rheumy asked a colleague to do an ultrasound scan (USS) of my hands & feet
- I'm still negative for both Rh Factor and anti CCP, but since diagnosis have add much more effective treatment
Now on methotrexate & rutuximab (after Humira worked for a while then stopped helping as much)

If your friend isn't getting anywhere tell her to ask her Consultant about whether it is possible to have a diagnostic ultrasoun scan
Mine showed very clear inflammation with thickening of the synovuium as well as very small nodules that couldn't be felt
(nothing had shown up on Xray, which I guess is good as it meant there wasn't any worrying bony erosions or other damage)

Hope this helps you!