Hello! I have a question for those of you with RA. I was just dx with RA by my GP (I am 27 yrs old)...I have an ANA of 1:320 but a neg Rheumatoid Factor. Also, my sed rate was only 1. My symptoms are fatigue, joint pain, I am photosensitive (skin biopsy was done). I was sent to a Rheumy this week who was a complete jerk...once he heard that I have 3 children he completely dismissed my bloodwork and said that I have carpal tunnel in both hands and fatigue syndrome. He told me to get a yoga tape and I would feel better! He said that I do not have RA-that nothing inflammatory is going on. I know I have to have arthritis...I have morning stiffness in my joints and my knuckles in my hands are extremely painful..as are my wrists, knees, and sometimes shoulders and feet. Also the fingers that I have the most pain in have started to turn sideways. Can you in fact have RA with a neg rheumatoid factor, low sed rate, and only a + ANA? I am getting a referral for a 2nd opinion. I just wanted to know if anyone out there has similar bloodwork?

Heather

Hi,
When I first had swelling my GP did the same test you had. My ana was the same as yours, my RA factor was negative and my sed rate was slightly elavated but I don't remember the number, can tell you next week when I pick up my records. I only had swelling in my hands at the time. Did get pinched nerves in my feet next and had cortizone shots for those but it wasn't until a year later and lots more swelling that I saw a Rheumy. She told me I had RA and my RA factor was still normal. They also at that time ran a anti-citralean (sp) test. I think it was supposed to be a newer test that would show positive for RA sooner then the factor test. Under 70 was normal, I scored a 700.
I would definately get a second opinion!!

Hi Heather,

I know you you can have RA with a negative RA factor. I don't know about the sed rate though, mine has always been elevated. Believe me though the results of these blood test can change from one week to the next.

I am not familuar with ANA. What is this?

I would definately go for a second opinion.

Take care and hang in there. :wave:

Also the fingers that I have the most pain in have started to turn sideways. I was very interested when l read about your fingers! As l too have noticed this not only with my finger(s) but also the knee that is most affected with pain!! I have not been dxn, but l do have inflammation in my blood test. I suffer horendous crap (worse infact) in my calfs although they occur rarely. Im due another trip to docs to be evaluated as my ? aint getting no better. The knee pain started over 18 year ago! Can l have some info on damage to the joints etc please. I want to be armed for my visit thanx and god bless Ps also how it affects your general well being and ladies your periods. I will contribute to any posts ,for those who have noticed fingers etc changing shape would anyones be like mine start just above knuckle and turn towards midddle fingers? Thanx again