Anti CC blood test

[cathyh]

HI quick question my rheumy has asked for a anti CCP blood test..what is the opinion on this is it quite a conclusive test?

[Hidden]

If it is positive then it is the best (most specific) blood indicator that you do have RA, but 40% of those with RA are negative for anti-CCP, in which case it doesn't rule out that you have RA.

[helixhelix]

Yes it's a pain that there's nothing completely guaranteed about diagnosing RA. If the result is positive then I think the probability is over 80% that you have RA. But if it's negative, as Rarebird says, it doesn't mean you haven't got it. Most rheumies go on a mix of blood tests, physical signs and how you feel. But the anti-CCP is the best there is so far as far as I'm aware. Polly

[Scottishlad in reply to helixhelix]

I remember my rheumy asking if weather affected my joints. When I replied that it didn't she replied that's RA (probably rather than osteoarthritis? ). I think I don't have any of the classic bloodtest results so my diagnosis is down to physical examination and symptoms. Not everyone has definitive test results this is one of problems some people have getting a diagnosis.