Antibody and Protein Tests
From a blood sample, some tests can be done to identify specific antibodies and proteins that indicate arthritis. These include:
– Rheumatoid factor: This antibody can be found in the blood of around 70 to 90 percent of people with rheumatoid arthritis.
– Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide: A high number of this antibody suggests the presence of rheumatoid arthritis.
– C-reactive protein: This protein is released by the liver in response to inflammation or injury.
– Antinuclear antibodies: These are abnormal autoantibodies that may suggest an autoimmune condition.
– Human leukocyte antigens: These proteins are genetic markers for rheumatic conditions. [3]
