Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosis

The diagnosing process involves charting one's medical history, examination of the affected joints to assess the extent of damage in terms of inflammation, functionality, and deformity.

Doctors frequently request a test to measure rheumatoid factor when attempting a diagnosis. This diagnosis can be tricky because a person can have a negative rheumatoid factor test but still have rheumatoid arthritis. Another person may test positive on the rheumatoid factor but not have it.

Doctors may also request x-rays and/or blood tests for further testing. Further recommendation to a rheumatologist (a physician that specializes in the treatment of arthritis and other related rheumatoid diseases) may be made to make a more conclusive diagnosis.

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