How Is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed

How Is Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosed?

There is not a singular test to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. First, the patient will meet with a rheumatologist who will perform a physical and take a history of symptoms. The joints will be examined to determine if there is inflammation and tenderness, and the skin may be examined to look for rheumatoid nodules. The doctor may order blood tests or X-rays to help diagnose the condition.
Many other diseases such as gout, fibromyalgia, and lupus may resemble rheumatoid arthritis, so the doctor will rule out these conditions before making a diagnosis of RA.