How to Test for Rheumatoid Arthritis: FAQ Guide

Published March 25, 2025

This guide covers key information about how to get tested for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), including symptoms, risk factors, available tests, and how to interpret results.

RA is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects an estimated 1.5 million people in the United States.¹ It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, particularly the synovial membranes that line and protect the joints. This leads to inflammation, joint pain, and potential long-term damage. In some cases, RA can also affect other body systems, including the blood vessels, heart, lungs, skin, and eyes.² Because RA is a progressive disease that can worsen over time without treatment, early detection through testing is essential. 

What Are RA Symptoms and Risks?

RA symptoms can develop gradually, appear suddenly, or you can have flare ups (when the signs and symptoms are worse).  

Common Signs and Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Tiredness
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Joint aches and pains, swelling, and tenderness
• Joint swelling and stiffness, especially in the morning or after inactivity
• Weakness
• Symmetrical joint involvement (affecting both sides of the body)¹,²

Who Is at Risk for Rheumatoid Arthritis?

• Individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB)
• People with a family history of RA
• Those with obesity
• Smokers, as smoking increases both risk and severity of RA¹

Without treatment, RA can lead to joint damage, osteoporosis, and complications affecting the heart, lungs, or even the immune system. Early testing and diagnosis can help slow disease progression.

What Types of RA Tests Are Available?

Blood tests may help healthcare providers identify RA. questhealth.com’s Rheumatoid Arthritis Test includes:

Mutated Citrullinated Vimentin (MCV) Antibodies Test

• Helps detect early-stage RA
• Identifies autoimmune activity related to joint inflammation

Rheumatoid Factor (RF) Test

• Measures rheumatoid factor antibodies
• Elevated levels may indicate RA or another autoimmune disorder

Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide (CCP) Antibodies Test

• Detects antibodies that attack the body’s own cells
• Used to help confirm an RA diagnosis

Additional Tests to Evaluate Inflammation

Healthcare providers may also recommend some of the following tests:

• Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) Test – Measures inflammation levels in the body
• C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test – Detects liver-produced proteins linked to inflammation
• Imaging Tests (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound) – Assess joint damage or inflammation severity

How Should You Prepare for a Rheumatoid Arthritis Blood Test?

• No fasting required for standard RA blood tests
• Stay hydrated for a smoother blood draw
• Inform your doctor about any medications, as some may affect results

How to Interpret Rheumatoid Arthritis Test Results

Your test results may not always be straightforward. You should work with your healthcare provider to interpret your individual results in combination with your health history.  

• Positive RF or CCP Antibodies: May indicate rheumatoid arthritis
• High ESR or CRP Levels: May suggest increased inflammation in the body
• Normal Results: May require further testing if RA symptoms persist

A healthcare provider may use a combination of test results and imaging studies to confirm a diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan.

Why Choose Quest for Rheumatoid Arthritis Testing?

Quest offers fast and convenient rheumatoid arthritis testing with several key benefits:

• No doctor’s visit required—order online and visit a Quest location for sample collection.
• Comprehensive testing options to help identify RA early.
• Independent physician consultations available at no extra cost for abnormal results.

Buy Your Rheumatoid Arthritis Test Today

No doctor visit is required to buy your own lab test at questhealth.com. PWNHealth and its affiliates review your purchase to ensure it is medically appropriate before submitting the test order for processing. PWNHealth also reviews your test results and will contact you directly if they require prompt attention. Included in each purchase is the option to discuss your test results with an independent physician; however, you are also encouraged to speak with your primary healthcare provider.