Question

List four methods used to detect Rheumatoid Factor (RF) in the diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Answer 1

Four methods used to detect Rheumatoid Factor (RF) in the diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis include blood tests, indirect immunofluorescence assays, latex agglutination tests, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test.

Step-by-step explanation:

Four methods used to detect Rheumatoid Factor (RF) in the diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis include:

1. Blood tests: Blood tests are performed to measure the levels of RF antibodies. Elevated levels of RF antibodies indicate the presence of Rheumatoid Arthritis.
2. Indirect immunofluorescence assays: These assays use fluorescence technology to detect and visualize the presence of RF antibodies in the patient's serum.
3. Latex agglutination tests: These tests involve mixing the patient's serum with latex beads that are coated with IgG antibodies. The presence of RF antibodies in the serum causes agglutination of the latex beads.
4. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test: This test measures the rate at which red blood cells settle in a test tube. Elevated ESR levels can be an indication of the presence of Rheumatoid Arthritis.