What is the Anti-CCP Antibodies (RF) Test?

The Anti-CCP Antibodies (RF) test measures two key immune markers linked to rheumatoid arthritis (RA):
• Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (Anti-CCP)
• Rheumatoid factor (RF)

Both markers help detect autoimmune activity targeting the joints. Anti-CCP is highly specific for RA and often appears years before symptoms, making this test one of the most reliable tools for early diagnosis, active disease confirmation, and monitoring.

This test requires a blood sample and is suitable for anyone experiencing persistent joint problems or those with a family history of autoimmune disease.

Benefits of the Anti-CCP Antibodies (RF) Test

·      Early Detection of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Anti-CCP can show elevated levels long before joint damage occurs, giving you a crucial early start on treatment.

·      High Specificity
Anti-CCP has one of the highest specificities for RA among autoimmune markers, helping differentiate RA from other joint conditions.

·      Assessment of Disease Severity
Higher Anti-CCP levels can be associated with more aggressive disease, helping guide therapeutic decisions.

·      Clarifies Unexplained Joint Symptoms
Ideal for people with chronic pain, swelling, stiffness, or limited mobility who need clarity.

·      Helps Monitor Autoimmune Activity
Useful for tracking changes in antibody levels during treatment and long-term management.

·      Supports Clinical Diagnosis
When combined with symptoms and imaging, this test significantly improves diagnostic accuracy.

Why Do I Need an Anti-CCP Antibodies (RF) Test?

Common Symptoms That Suggest You Should Test

·      Persistent joint pain

·      Morning stiffness lasting over 30 minutes

·      Swollen, warm, or tender joints

·      Difficulty making a fist or gripping

·      Symmetrical joint pain (both wrists, both hands, both knees)

·      Fatigue and low energy

·      Unexplained inflammation

·      Low-grade fevers

·      Reduced range of motion

Who Should Consider Testing?

·      Anyone with symptoms suspicious for rheumatoid arthritis

·      Individuals with a family history of autoimmune diseases

·      People previously told they have “inflammatory arthritis”

·      Patients with negative RF but ongoing symptoms

·      Those needing confirmation before starting disease-modifying treatment

·      Individuals monitoring their autoimmune marker progression over time

Step-by-Step: How the Test Works

1. Booking Your Test

Choose at-home or in-clinic testing.
• At-home phlebotomy: A trained phlebotomist visits your home or hotel for an additional £60.
• In-clinic: Available across various UK locations for £35.

2. Sample Collection

A small blood sample is taken from your arm, labelled, and sent directly to our UKAS-accredited laboratory.

3. Laboratory Analysis

The lab measures:
• Anti-CCP antibody levels
• Rheumatoid factor (RF)
• Cut-off values to determine positivity

4. Results Delivery

You receive a secure digital report with all markers clearly displayed, including reference ranges.

5. Optional GP Consultation

If required, you can add a GP consultation to review results and treatment options.

Results – How to Interpret Anti-CCP & RF Levels

Your report will show the numerical values for both Anti-CCP and RF. Here is how to interpret them:

Anti-CCP Antibodies

• <20 U/mL: Negative – low likelihood of autoimmune joint disease.
• 20–39 U/mL: Weakly positive – may indicate early or evolving rheumatoid arthritis; repeat testing advised if symptoms persist.
• 40–59 U/mL: Moderately positive – increased probability of RA and autoimmune joint inflammation.
• ≥60 U/mL: Strongly positive – highly suggestive of rheumatoid arthritis, especially with matching symptoms.

Rheumatoid Factor (RF)

• <14 IU/mL: Negative – RF not detected.
• 14–30 IU/mL: Borderline positive – seen in early RA or other inflammatory conditions.
• >30 IU/mL: Positive – supports autoimmune joint disease, especially when Anti-CCP is also positive.

Important Notes

• A positive Anti-CCP is more specific for RA than RF.
• RA can still be present if RF is negative but Anti-CCP is positive.
• Both markers positive = significantly higher likelihood of RA.
• Always interpret results alongside symptoms and clinical assessment.