The Rheumatoid Factor (RF) blood test measures the presence of rheumatoid factor, an autoantibody that can attack healthy tissue when the immune system mistakenly targets the body’s own cells. Elevated RF levels are most commonly associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic autoimmune condition that causes joint inflammation, pain, and progressive damage.
While rheumatoid arthritis is the most well-known condition linked to RF, elevated levels may also appear in other autoimmune or inflammatory disorders. Because RA can begin subtly and worsen over time, early testing plays a critical role in identifying immune system activity before irreversible joint damage occurs.
What Is Included In This Test?
This test measures the concentration of rheumatoid factor in your blood to help assess autoimmune activity.
Your results can help:
- Support the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis
- Identify autoimmune-related inflammation
- Assess disease severity and progression risk
- Guide follow-up testing such as anti-CCP antibodies or imaging
- Assist in early intervention and treatment planning
Although a positive RF result alone does not confirm rheumatoid arthritis, higher levels, especially when symptoms are present, are often linked to more active or aggressive disease.
Who Should Consider This Test?
This test is ideal for individuals experiencing symptoms that may suggest rheumatoid arthritis or autoimmune inflammation.
You should consider this test if you:
- Have persistent joint pain, swelling, or stiffness
- Experience morning joint stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
- Have unexplained fatigue or low-grade fever
- Have a family history of rheumatoid arthritis or autoimmune disease
- Want early evaluation to reduce the risk of long-term joint damage
Early detection allows for faster diagnosis, targeted treatment, and improved long-term outcomes.
Convenient, No-Appointment Testing
To complete your test:
- Order online through our website
- Use the lab locator to find a nearby testing location
- Walk in; no appointment required
- Access your results securely in your HealthLabs.com account within one to three business days
110% Price Guarantee!
If you find the same test for a lower price from a comparable provider, contact us. We not only match the price, we beat it by an additional 10 percent of the difference.