Can you have rheumatoid arthritis with a negative rheumatoid factor?
Doc suspects RA because of my joint pain and fatigue, but my Rheumatoid Factor test came negative. Does this mean it definitely isn't RA? I am confused because the symptoms match.
5 answers
8 months ago
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I spent half the night googling this because my finger joints are aching but my RF test was totally negative. It's so frustrating when your body behaves like it has arthritis but the paper says otherwise, leaving you sleep-deprived and confused! I guess we just have to trust a real doctor over these lab sheets.
4 months ago
Haan na, this is actually called seronegative rheumatoid arthritis and it is quite common. People think negative report means no arthritis, but the pain and swelling in joints are still there. Better to visit a good rheumatologist who can guide you properly, ho na.
8 months ago
Honestly, don't waste your time waiting for a positive blood report if your joints are stiff every morning. Seronegative RA exists, and delaying treatment because of a negative RF test will only affect your work productivity. Book an appointment with a rheumatologist and get an anti-CCP test done instead.
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Consult a rheumatologist
yrs exp
4 months ago
Yes, approximately 20 to 30 percent of people with rheumatoid arthritis are seronegative, meaning they test negative for rheumatoid factor. Diagnosis in these cases is based on clinical symptoms, joint involvement, and imaging. A specialist's clinical evaluation is the most reliable way to proceed.
8 months ago
I would be so anxious if my reports came back negative while I was still in pain, as it makes you doubt your own symptoms. But please don't worry, many people have gone through this exact same confusion and found answers. Stay strong and get a second opinion from a specialist to ease your mind.