The diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests.
Medical History: Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms, including the location and severity of joint pain, morning stiffness, fatigue, and any other associated symptoms.
Physical Examination: During a physical exam, your doctor will check for joint swelling, tenderness, warmth, and range of motion. They will also assess for any nodules, such as those that may appear over bony prominences.
Laboratory Tests: Your doctor may order laboratory tests to help confirm a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Blood tests can help detect the presence of certain antibodies, such as rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies, which are commonly found in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may also be ordered to assess for joint damage.
If your doctor suspects you have rheumatoid arthritis, they may refer you to a rheumatologist, who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other rheumatic diseases. The rheumatologist may perform additional tests and imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
