Intended Use

For the quantitative in vitro determination of Rheumatoid factor in serum. This product is suitable for automated, semi-automated and manual use.

Clinical Significance

Rheumatoid Factors (RF) are a heterogeneous group of high molecular weight IgM molecules directed against the antigenic sites on the Fc portion of the body’s own immunoglobulins. Between 60 and 80% of patients with active Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) possess this abnormal protein in their blood and joint fluid, and its detection is therefore of value in the diagnosis and monitoring of the disease. The test also allows clinicians to distinguish between RA and rheumatic fever in which RF is almost always absent.