Rheumatoid Factor, Body Fluid
Also known as: RA-FL
Use
The Rheumatoid Factor, Body Fluid test is a diagnostic assessment used to detect the presence of rheumatoid factor in body fluids such as cerebrospinal fluid, pericardial fluid, pleural fluid, or synovial fluid. Rheumatoid factor is an autoantibody that may be present in various autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis. This test aids in the diagnosis and monitoring of these conditions by evaluating the potential inflammatory processes occurring within the body.
Special Instructions
For specimens sourced from New York clients, particularly pericardial fluid, a Non-Permitted Laboratory Request (NPL) form must be submitted to the New York State Department of Health. The specimen source must be clearly indicated with the submission of the sample.
Limitations
This test is limited to specific types of body fluids: cerebrospinal, pericardial, pleural, or synovial. Specimens that are too viscous to be aspirated by the instrument may be rejected. The test is not cleared or approved by the US FDA, and results may not be valid for establishing a diagnosis in all clinical scenarios. Additionally, the specimen's stability can degrade if not stored properly, potentially affecting the accuracy of results.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Other)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 30231-5
- 31208-2
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Other
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge to remove cellular material before transferring to the transport tube.
Storage Instructions
Store refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Specimen types other than those listed; specimens too viscous to be aspirated by instrument.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 24 hours |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | 1 month (should not be thawed more than once) |