Hi Greg,

From what I know, seropositive indicates that you have a positive result for RF. I think some doctors count the anti ccp as seropositive when RF is not. Not everyone, though. I'd be interested in what others say about this, in case I am wrong.

Regardless of positive test results, I believe that the doctor should always treat based on patient's symptoms and exam. Some people have a high SED rate and have no symptoms - others have a normal SED rate and are miserable with symptoms. A good rheumy, in my opinion, will treat your individual case regardless of what the labs are indicating.

Thanks Linda. I think I have a normal SED rate but a C Reactive Protein level that is through the roof, Not sure how that is possible because my C reactive protein level indicates very high inflammation in my body, I'm curious about a lot of things these days and trying to educate myself as much as possible.

http://rheuminfo.com/diseases/rheumatoid-arthritis/diagnosing-rheumatoid-arthritis

You will be considered sero-positive. And at some point, your anti-ccp might jump into the game.

The only additional thing I think is that you get your ANA checked to make sure it doesn't end up being lupus. I've known people to start with RA or inflammatory arthritis and actually end up diagnosed lupus.

For me, I'm sero-positive (RF factor and anti-ccp - but my crp is always low and my sed rate is usually very slightly elevated, like someone with allergies)...but my joints don't ache. I'm considering having my synovial fluid tested at some point. I know that's where my attacks happen. Results could indicate RA or other things like psuedo-gout.

Definitely get the full panel done that includes your ANA. My PCP did the initial blood tests on me that came back with a very high RF factor and also high ANA for SLE. When I went to my first rheumy appt she redid all the previous blood tests and added a bunch more. My RF factor was still high and so was the ANA. I am positive for RA and Lupus. Lupus is in my family so that was no surprise but no one has RA that we know of. I am being treated for both now. Good luck to you.

Dana

I agree - you need the full panel.

What does the full panel entail? I've had a lot of blood work done already and may have already had the full panel. I know Lupus and Lyme disease were just a couple of other diseases I was checked for.

Hi Greg,

If you were checked for Lupus and Lyme, you may have already had a full panel. Next time you are at your rheumy's office, ask them to be sure. Most rheumy's do a full panel on your first visit. My panel consisted of CBC and all chemistries (potassium, sodium, etc.). All antibodies, Celiac Panel, antinuclear antibodies and SED rate. They took 9 vials of blood for that first panel. So, if you had to give many vials - you probably had the full deal.

Thanks Linda! I'll ask. My memory seems to have declined in the past year as well. I couldn't tell you if they took 1 vial of blood or 10!

when I saw my rheumatologist for the first time, I got cbc, cmp, sed rate, crp, rheumatoid factor, anti-ccp, ana, hepatitis panel, ck (muscle test).

I'm sure I am missing one or two. This week I am being tested for celiac disease. Just to know if my stomach issues are related to gluten. Anti-ccp is confirmation of RA, but can also be psoriatic arthritis and occasionally lupus.