Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
SerumRheumatoid Factor (RF)
Specimen Volume
5-10 mLSample Preparation
Centrifuge
Turnaround Time
1 daySample Processing In Laboratory
Usual
Sample Stability
Stored at 4oC
General Information
Rheumatoid factor is a significant serological marker of rheumatoid arthritis and can occur in 50 -90% of patients with RA, however, 2-10 % of apparently healthy adults have been shown to have a positive rheumatoid factor and Rheumatoid factors can oocur in up to 50% of patients with infection.
Patient Preparation
None
Notes
This method is suitable for serum samples only.
Reference Range
<14 IU/mL
Specifications
-
EQA Status:
UK NEQAS scheme for general autoimmune serology.
- EQAS Scheme: Yes