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.