Worried about abnormal rheumatology labs? Get an expert opinion at VITAL Rheumatology!

When evaluating individuals with abnormal lab results, such as positive antinuclear antibodies (ANA), rheumatoid factor (RF), cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibodies, and HLA-B27, we begin by taking a detailed medical history. This includes asking about the your symptoms, such as joint pain, stiffness, fatigue, or skin rashes, as well as any family history of autoimmune diseases or rheumatic conditions. Understanding your full medical background helps us determine which specific autoimmune or inflammatory disorders may be at play and guides further evaluation.
Next, we perform a thorough physical examination to assess joint health and look for signs of inflammation, swelling, or tenderness. We may evaluate the range of motion in affected joints and examine other areas of the body for any additional signs of systemic involvement, such as skin changes, eye symptoms, or organ dysfunction. This step is crucial in correlating the lab results with physical findings, helping us formulate a differential diagnosis that considers various conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis.
Following the history and physical exam, we may order additional laboratory tests or imaging studies to clarify the diagnosis. For example, a positive ANA test can indicate several autoimmune diseases, but it is not specific to one condition and there are frequent false positives. Similarly, positive RF and CCP antibodies are often associated with rheumatoid arthritis but can appear in other conditions as well. HLA-B27 positivity is linked to ankylosing spondylitis and other spondyloarthritis forms. By integrating the lab results, clinical findings, and any new tests, we can establish a more accurate diagnosis and develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses your needs.

What is an ANA test?
An ANA (antinuclear antibody) test checks for antibodies in the blood that can attack the body’s own cells. It’s often used to help diagnose autoimmune diseases, like lupus. The test looks for signs that the immune system may be attacking your tissues.
What does a positive ANA mean?
A positive ANA test means that your immune system is producing antibodies that target your own cells. This can be a sign of an autoimmune disease, but it doesn’t mean you definitely have one. Some healthy people can have a positive ANA without any disease.
Does a positive ANA mean that I have lupus?
A positive ANA test is one of the indicators used to diagnose lupus, but it alone doesn’t confirm the disease. Many people with lupus have a positive ANA, but a positive result can also be seen in other autoimmune diseases or even in healthy people. Additional tests and symptoms are needed for a diagnosis.
What do the patterns and titer mean on the ANA test?
The patterns on an ANA test help us narrow down which autoimmune disease might be present. Different diseases show different patterns. The titer is also important to evaluate, since low titers of 1:40 and 1:80 are rarely associated with lupus.
What is a positive rheumatoid factor (RF)?
A positive rheumatoid factor (RF) test means that there are antibodies in your blood that may be attacking other antibodies. It’s often associated with rheumatoid arthritis but can be found in other conditions too, such as infections or other autoimmune diseases. Sometimes, low-positive values may be present in normal people without disease.
Does a positive RF mean that I have rheumatoid arthritis?
A positive RF test doesn’t mean you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but it’s a sign that you might. Many people with RA have a positive RF, but it can also be positive in other conditions or even in healthy people, especially as they age. Additional symptoms and tests are needed for a full diagnosis.
For what abnormal antibody tests should I see a rheumatologist?
If you have abnormal antibody tests, especially ANA, RF, or other autoimmune markers, and are experiencing symptoms like joint pain, rashes, or other unexplained issues, consult with your primary care provider and see if a rheumatology referral is needed for further evaluation.