does elevated RA factor mean...
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does elevated RA factor mean...
| Sun, 11-06-2005 - 1:24am |
does this mean I would have RA? I am tested on a semi regular basis for several issues because I have CFIDS and Fibromyalgia. For the first time my results had several different or new results, including a RA factor of 38. (and elevated CRP, but thats always elevated in me..it was a lot higher than usual though)
I have many of the symptoms and the doctor and I have always chalked it up to my other illnesses, but now I am wondering....should I go see a specialist??? thanks---I know that a key in the illnes is catching it early so better safe than sorry....amanda
I have many of the symptoms and the doctor and I have always chalked it up to my other illnesses, but now I am wondering....should I go see a specialist??? thanks---I know that a key in the illnes is catching it early so better safe than sorry....amanda

Dear Amanda since you have already been diagnosed with auto immune problems it could be feasible that you do have RA and it has been masked,or your fibromyalgia has been RA all along. Equally you may not have RA at all.
I am sure Molly will give you the links that explain what the RA factor is and what it means.
You can have RA and have a negative RA factor, or just a small RA factor or a high one (mine was a 1000s & something with a normal CRP at the time.) Pathology results just paint part of the picture a correct diagnosis would involve other physcial factors, signs & symptoms.
As you would be aware it is often very hard for a diagnosis of an auto immune illness.
I think either way it would be in your best interest to see a rhematologits. Lell
thanks again! amanda
Hello Amanda
Molly
Molly