CCP and RF | Arthritis Information

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I asked for a copy of my original lab results.

 
RF was 38.3, normal <20  
 
CCP was >250, normal <20
 
From what little I've read, I think these numbers indicate RA and RA that will probably worsen.  Is that correct?  I am doing very well on my current medications.  How often should this type lab work be done again?  I have blood work done every 3 or 4 months, but I don't think they are re-checking the RF or CCP.
 
Thanks 
as of right now there is no definitive data on the effects of treatment on the RF and CCP so they generally are not monitored on a regular basis.
 
As long as you are doing well and your inflammation markers are good you've got good signs that your meds are working.  High RF and CCP are indicators of potentially more serious disease but they aren't abosulte guarantees of such.  It means that your dr is likely to be more agressive with your treatment
Hey, Flamingo.
 
My RF was 330 and my Anti-CCP was 238.  I also had elevated ESR and CRP.  I consider myself lucky that my tests were elevated because it caused treatment to be started right  away.  I've done really well since diagnosis in 2004.  No damage that I know of right now.  
 
My RD never rechecks the RF or Anti-CCP, but he does check my CRP and CMP every visit.  I've read on several sites that the RF and Anti-CCP are good for diagnosis only.
kweenb2009-07-25 15:32:00Thanks for the comments.  I'm just happy that I am feeling good right now.  Lost my part-time job recently and feel so much better, physically, now.  Although it wasn't too strenuous, I think it was causing me to have hand/wrist and hip pains that I'm not having right now.  I have a good RA doctor so I am fortunate in that as well.  My mother had severe RA for years so I'm trying to do whatever the doc recommends for me so I can hopefully keep mine under control.
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