Rheumatoid Profile 1

Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling can arise from several different conditions, and identifying the underlying cause is essential for effective management. The Rheumatoid Profile 1 is a focused screening panel that combines haematology and immunology markers to help distinguish rheumatoid arthritis from other inflammatory and metabolic joint disorders. It is suitable for anyone experiencing persistent joint symptoms, unexplained inflammation, or those who need a baseline assessment before referral to a rheumatologist.

This profile uses a simple blood sample, analysed using standard haematological and immunological techniques, including full blood count analysis and immunoassay-based detection of autoantibodies and inflammatory proteins.

Full Blood Count (FBC)
- Haemoglobin (Hb)
- White cell count (WCC) with differential
- Platelet count (PLT)
- Red cell indices (MCV, MCH, MCHC)
- Haematocrit (Hct)

Autoimmune & Inflammatory Markers
- Antinuclear antibodies (ANA)
- C-reactive protein (CRP)
- Rheumatoid factor (RF)

Metabolic Marker
- Uric acid

Why it matters
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that can cause progressive joint damage if left untreated. Timely investigation allows your doctor to evaluate joint symptoms and guide appropriate referral or management decisions. The FBC provides insight into anaemia of chronic disease and overall immune cell activity, while ANA and rheumatoid factor help identify autoimmune involvement. CRP is a sensitive marker of active inflammation, and uric acid screening helps exclude gout as a cause of joint pain. Together, these markers give your clinician a clearer picture to guide diagnosis and treatment decisions.