RF IgM

Rheumatoid Factor IgM

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What's

RF IgM

Rheumatoid Factor IgM (RF IgM) is a special type of protein created by your body's defense system. What makes it unique is that instead of fighting off harmful germs like bacteria or viruses, it mistakenly attacks your body's own healthy tissues, specifically a part of other immune proteins called IgG antibodies. This self-attack is a feature of autoimmune conditions, where the body accidentally harms itself. RF IgM is most often linked to rheumatoid arthritis, a long-lasting condition that causes inflammation and affects many joints, including those in your hands and feet. However, it can also be found in other autoimmune diseases. It's important to remember that RF IgM is just one part of the bigger picture when it comes to understanding your overall health.

If Your Levels Are High

Elevated RF IgM levels might mean that your immune system is working harder than normal. This could be because it's fighting off an infection or reacting to an autoimmune condition, where your body mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. Some medications, like those for chronic illnesses, can also cause higher RF IgM levels. Other possible reasons for increased levels include chronic liver disease, ongoing infections, and certain types of cancer. Keep in mind that this is just one piece of information and doesn't necessarily mean you have these conditions; it's simply an indication that your immune system is more active than usual.

Symptoms of High Levels

Symptoms of high levels of RF IgM could include joint pain and swelling, stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity, fatigue, and general feelings of being unwell.

If Your Levels are Low

Low levels of RF IgM might mean that your body isn't producing this particular antibody as much as expected. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as your body's natural differences, certain medications you might be taking (like corticosteroids or immunosuppressants), or an underlying health condition. It's also possible that your immune system isn't currently involved in an autoimmune response, which is when RF IgM production usually increases. Keep in mind that this is just one aspect of your immune function and doesn't necessarily give a complete picture of your overall health.

Symptoms of Low Levels

Symptoms of low levels of RF IgM are typically not noticeable, as this specific antibody is often associated with autoimmune responses rather than everyday immune function.

See References

Test for

Rheumatoid Factor IgM

AutoImmune Analyzer

Access Med Labs

Serum

This test measures antinuclear antibodies and other related markers to help diagnose autoimmune disease. Antinuclear antibodies are present in systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjogren’s Syndrome, scleroderma, mixed connective tissue disease, drug-induced lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid Factor

Access Med Labs

Serum

This is a single-marker test measuring rheumatoid factor. It is used for the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and in monitoring the therapeutic response to the disease.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Panel (ANA, RF, CCP)

Access Med Labs

Serum

This panel is used to aid in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid Factor

Access Labcorp Draw

Serum

This is a single-marker test measuring rheumatoid factor (RF). It is used for the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis and in monitoring the therapeutic response to the disease.

Arthritis Panel

Access Med Labs

Serum

This test measures several biomarkers to help diagnose arthritis.

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What is it?

High Levels

Low Levels

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