Rheumatoid Factor: About This Test

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A rheumatoid factor (RF) blood test measures the amount of the RF antibody in your blood. The RF antibody can damage normal body tissue.

A high RF level can be caused by diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. It's also caused by some other conditions. Sometimes healthy people have a high level of RF.

A test for rheumatoid factor is done to help support a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

In general, there's nothing you have to do before this test, unless your doctor tells you to.

A health professional uses a needle to take a blood sample, usually from the arm.

The test will take a few minutes.

  • You will probably be able to go home right away.
  • You can go back to your usual activities right away.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to keep a list of the medicines you take. Ask your doctor when you can expect to have your test results.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

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Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: April 30, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.