Connective Tissue and Autoimmune Panel

CONNECTIVE TISSUE/AUTOIMMUNE DISORDER PANEL

Test Components:
The Connective Tissue/Autoimmune Disorder Panel includes the following tests:
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
2. Chemistry Panel (16 essential tests)
3. Sedimentation Rate, Westergren
4. C‐Reactive Protein (High Sensitivity)
5. Rheumatoid Factor
6. Antinuclear Antibodies

Description:
This panel includes a number of tests that give you and your doctor information to help you determine if you have a connective tissue or auto‐immune disorder (such as arthritis).

The Rheumatoid Factor (RF) Test is primarily used to help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis and other forms of arthritis and other conditions that cause joint pain, inflammation, stiffness and others. It is commonly ordered with other tests like the CRP (C‐Reactive Protein) and a CBC.

The C‐Reactive Protein (High Sensitivity) is a protein that increases during systemic inflammation. This panel tests this level to assess any cardiovascular or heart disease risk. In addition, this panel includes an Antinuclear Antibodies Test, which measures the amount of abnormal antibodies that hurt the body’s tissues.

The CBC measures important parameters of the cellular makeup of your blood that can reveal anemia, signs of infection or other factors that may cause fatigue; a Chemistry Panel, which analyzes electrolytes, sugar, proteins, and enzymes including sodium, potassium, calcium, glucose and liver/kidney function tests; and a Sedimentation Rate, which detects and monitors inflammation in the body.

Why Do I Need It?:
Do your joints hurt? Do you have body stiffness? It could be arthritis or other body inflammation. There are nearly three times as many women with rheumatoid arthritis than men…and it usually begins between your 30s and 60s. But anyone can get rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders. Get a clearer picture of your health today.

You should see your primary care physician who may refer you to a rheumatologist.