Question
I have been having severe ankle and leg pains for some time. My Dr. ordered a series of bloodwork testing, including RA. RA Factor/RA Latex Turboid was 13.2. I was diagnosed with Arthritis at 23 years old and told the type of Arthritis I have could turn into RA. I am now 60 years old. Should this be of concern to me?
Answer
That is a very marginal elevation of the RF test. The test is more specfic for RA, the higher the level. Also low levels of RF are more frequent in older people. Finally, RA most frequently affects the hands and wrists. Despite all of this, you could still possibly have RA. Discuss with your doctor.