Tests & imaging
Understanding your tests
Why each test is ordered, what a result can and can’t tell you, and what to expect.
Blood tests
14 guides
ANCA
Antibodies linked to small-vessel vasculitis.
Anti-CCP Antibody
An antibody that is highly specific for rheumatoid arthritis.
Antinuclear Antibody (ANA)
A screening test for autoimmune diseases such as lupus, Sjögren’s and scleroderma.
Antiphospholipid Antibodies
Tests for antibodies that raise the risk of blood clots and pregnancy loss.
C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
A protein made by the liver that rises quickly when there is inflammation.
Complement (C3 and C4)
Proteins of the immune system that get used up during some types of inflammation.
Creatine Kinase (CK)
An enzyme released from damaged muscle.
ENA Panel and Anti-dsDNA
Follow-up antibody tests that pinpoint the type of autoimmune disease after a positive ANA.
ESR (Sed Rate)
A general marker of inflammation that measures how fast red blood cells settle in a tube.
HLA-B27
A genetic marker strongly linked to axial spondyloarthritis.
Rheumatoid Factor (RF)
An antibody found in many people with rheumatoid arthritis, and in some people without it.
Safety Monitoring Labs
Routine blood tests that keep your medicines safe.
TB and Hepatitis Screening
Tests done before starting biologics or JAK inhibitors.
Uric Acid
The waste product that forms crystals in gout.
Imaging
4 guides
DEXA Bone Density Scan
A low-dose X-ray that measures bone density at the hip and spine.
MRI
Detailed images of bone marrow and soft tissue.
Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
An in-office scan that shows inflamed joint lining, fluid, tendons and crystals in real time.
X-Ray
Standard images that show bone and joint structure.
Educational information only. Your own care plan should come from your physician, who knows your full history.