Rheumatoid Factor Test

The Rheumatoid Factor (RF) test measures the level of a specific antibody in your blood that can indicate the presence of rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease. In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's tissues, particularly joints. A positive RF test suggests a higher likelihood of this condition, but it’s not definitive, as elevated RF can occur in other diseases or even in healthy individuals. Doctors often use this test alongside other evaluations to diagnose and monitor rheumatoid arthritis and related conditions.