Blood Tests for Evaluating Arthritis

Blood tests can help diagnose arthritis, monitor treatments, and track disease activity. Blood test results are usually not definitive when considered alone. Laboratory blood tests can be valuable diagnostic tools. When used together with a patient's medical history and clinical evidence, your doctor can formulate an accurate diagnosis and establish a treatment plan.

According to rheumatologist Scott J. Zashin, M.D., "it is important to remember that while blood tests are helpful in confirming a diagnosis and assessment of disease activity, it is more important to diagnose and treat based on the patient's clinical presentation."

Monitoring the blood work of patients is also an important part of medical care for arthritis patients. Many of the medications used to treat arthritis may increase the risk of liver, kidney and blood abnormalities. Fortunately, these problems are uncommon, but when they occur, can be very serious. As a result, doctors will periodically obtain blood work to help pick up problems before they become apparent clinically. Read more about Blood Tests for Evaluating Arthritis.

Related Resources:

• Arthritis Diagnosis / Blood Tests
• Test Your Knowledge: Laboratory Tests
• Do Normal Blood Test Results Rule Out Arthritis?
• Blood Tests Used to Monitor Arthritis Treatments
• What Blood Tests Help Diagnose and Monitor Arthritis?

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