Lab Investigations in Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis

In addition to sign and symptom analysis, blood tests are commonly done to confirm the diagnosis. The majority of sufferers have antibodies called rheumatoid factor (RA factor).
Investigation shows high CRP and RA Factor.
X-ray findings.

Infectious arthritis

Testing a sample of fluid from the affected joints.
Blood culture.

Osteoarthritis

X-ray shows loss of joint space and formation of marginal osteophytes.

Consult a Doctor if

Pain and stiffness come on quickly, whether from an injury or an unknown cause.
A child has swinging fever, weight loss and loss of appetite associated with pain or a rash on armpits, knees, wrists, and ankles.
Joint pain associated with fever.