In this case scenario, based on the patient's history and laboratory findings, it would be appropriate to include arthrocentesis and synovial fluid analysis in the initial workup for RA to rule out gout, pseudogout, and septic arthritis.
As with RA, MRI is not a routine imaging modality for patients with crystalline arthropathy or infectious arthritis. It is, however, useful in the workup of patients with septic arthritis.
Although ultrasonography may provide rapid visualization of the joint, it will not consistently distinguish RA from crystalline arthropathy or septic arthritis.
Repeat RF testing may be considered; however, 1%-5% of healthy patients have a seropositive test result for RF, and this is insufficient for a diagnosis of RA. Therefore, the result of a repeat test would neither confirm RA nor rule out an alternative diagnosis.
Learn more about diagnostic considerations in patients with RA.
Editor's Recommendations
Medscape © 2020 WebMD, LLC
Any views expressed above are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect the views of WebMD or Medscape.
Cite this: Herbert S. Diamond. Fast Five Quiz: Rheumatoid Arthritis Workup - Medscape - Jun 10, 2020.
Comments