Rheumatoid Factor IgA Test
Short Name: RF IgA
Also known as: IgA Rheumatoid Factor, Rheumatoid Factor IgA Antibody Test
Rheumatoid Factor IgA Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹983. Uses Enzyme Immunoassay on Serum samples. Results in Samples submitted by 9 am are usually reported on the same day. Deliverables are available via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr SHAILAJA RAGHUNATH MURDESHWAR
Consultant Physician · Reg: 8052
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the Rheumatoid Factor IgA test is to detect the presence of IgA class autoantibodies that are often elevated in rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions. This test aids in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, helps assess the likelihood of disease progression, and serves as a prognostic marker for severe joint damage. It is particularly useful in the early phase of polyarthritis when clinical symptoms may be ambiguous. It may also be ordered to evaluate patients with unexplained synovitis or to differentiate seropositive from seronegative RA.
- Test Code
- 3602
- Price
- ₹983
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Samples submitted by 9 am are usually reported on the same day. Deliverables are available via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Enzyme Immunoassay
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. Inform your doctor about any current medications or supplements. You may eat and drink normally before the test.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A trained phlebotomist will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The procedure takes about 5 minutes and is generally well tolerated.
Report Delivery
After the blood sample is drawn, you can resume normal activities immediately. Keep the puncture site clean and apply pressure if there is any slight bleeding.
Timeline: Samples submitted by 9 am are usually reported on the same day. Deliverables are available via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Rheumatoid Factor IgA test is to detect the presence of IgA class autoantibodies that are often elevated in rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions. This test aids in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, helps assess the likelihood of disease progression, and serves as a prognostic marker for severe joint damage. It is particularly useful in the early phase of polyarthritis when clinical symptoms may be ambiguous. It may also be ordered to evaluate patients with unexplained synovitis or to differentiate seropositive from seronegative RA.
How to Prepare
- Use a serum separator tube (SST) to collect at least 2 mL of venous blood.
- Home sample collection is available; trained professionals follow strict safety protocols.
- Label the tube with patient ID and date of collection.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr SHAILAJA RAGHUNATH MURDESHWAR — MBBS, MD (General Medicine) · Reg. No. 8052
"Rheumatoid Factor IgA is a valuable marker in the early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. A positive result should always be interpreted alongside clinical findings and other serological tests like anti-CCP."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed, icteric, or lipemic specimens are rejected
- Improperly labelled samples are not accepted
- Samples older than the recommended stability period are rejected
Understanding Your Results
Negative RF IgA (< 20 U/mL)
RA is less likely but not completely excluded, especially in early disease. Clinical correlation and anti-CCP antibody testing may be helpful.
Positive RF IgA (≥ 20 U/mL)
Elevated IgA RF suggests a higher probability of rheumatoid arthritis and may indicate a more aggressive disease course. Further evaluation with anti-CCP, ESR, CRP, and imaging is recommended.
Borderline result
Results near the cut-off should be repeated in 4-6 weeks or correlated with other laboratory and clinical data.
If you are experiencing persistent joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and fatigue lasting for more than six weeks, it is advisable to consult a rheumatologist. Early referral and diagnosis can help initiate disease-modifying therapy and prevent irreversible joint damage.
Limitations
- ⚠A negative RF IgA test does not exclude rheumatoid arthritis; a significant proportion of RA patients are seronegative
- ⚠IgA RF can be elevated in other autoimmune rheumatic diseases, chronic liver disease, and some infections
- ⚠Test results should always be correlated with clinical symptoms and other biomarkers like anti-CCP
- ⚠Reference ranges may differ between laboratories, so serial testing should ideally be done at the same lab
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal: slight pain or bruising at the puncture site
- ●Rare: dizziness or lightheadedness during blood draw
- ●Very rare: infection at the needle insertion site
Interfering Factors
- ●Recent infection or vaccination may cause transient autoantibody production
- ●Lipemic, hemolyzed, or icteric samples can affect assay accuracy
- ●Presence of circulating immune complexes may interfere with immunoassay
- ●High levels of immunoglobulins from other conditions may produce false-positive results
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Rheumatoid Factor IgA Test | Rheumatoid Factor IgG | Anti-CCP Antibody | ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) | CRP (C-Reactive Protein) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Rheumatoid Factor IgA Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the Rheumatoid Factor IgA test in India?
Is the Rheumatoid Factor IgA test the same as the Rheumatoid Factor test?
Do I need to fast for this test?
What does a positive Rheumatoid Factor IgA result mean?
How long does it take to get the results?
Is home sample collection available for this test?
Can this test diagnose rheumatoid arthritis on its own?
Are there any risks associated with the blood test?
Who usually orders the Rheumatoid Factor IgA test?
What is the reference range for Rheumatoid Factor IgA?
Can I take this test if I already have a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis?
How should I book this test at DNA Labs India?
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