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Screening for Rheumatoid Arthritis

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Main Page Risk Factors Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment Screening Reducing Your Risk Talking to Your Doctor Living With Rheumatoid Arthritis Resource Guide

The purpose of screening is early diagnosis and treatment. Screening tests are usually administered to people without current symptoms, but who may be at high risk for certain diseases or conditions.

Screening Tests

There are no screening tests available for the early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. If your doctor suspects that you have rheumatoid arthritis, he may check an anti-citrullinated protein level in your blood to help make an early diagnosis. However, the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis is usually determined clinically, based on your symptoms, laboratory, and radiographic findings.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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References

  • Arthritis Foundation website. Available at: http://www.arthritis.org/ .

  • National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niams.nih.gov/ .

  • Conn’s Current Therapy . 54th ed. W.B. Saunders Company; 2002.

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