Rheumatology
This test measures key markers linked to inflammatory and autoimmune joint disease. It supports investigation of arthritis and persistent joint symptoms.
Turnaround time
2-3 days
Biomarkers count
4
Book your test
Choose Service Type
Professional phlebotomist comes to you
+ £{{ home_visit_fee }}
Visit our clinic for your test
{{ clinic_visit_fee > 0 ? '+ £' + clinic_visit_fee : 'Free' }}
Home Visit Details
Home visits require at least 24 hours notice.
Select a clinic: Sorting by distance…
{{ clinic.full_address }}
{{ selectedClinic.full_address }}
Select a date
Select an hour
Available time slots: {{ timeSlots.length}}
Details about Rheumatology
What is a Rheumatology Profile?
The Rheumatology Profile is a blood test panel designed to investigate inflammatory and autoimmune conditions affecting the joints and connective tissues. It helps doctors identify immune activity linked to arthritis and other inflammatory joint disorders.
This profile typically includes:
• Anti-CCP antibodies
• Rheumatoid Factor (RF)
• Uric Acid
• Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)
Anti-CCP and Rheumatoid Factor help detect rheumatoid arthritis, while ESR measures overall inflammation in the body. Uric acid helps identify gout and metabolic causes of joint pain.
Why do I need a test for Rheumatology Profile?
Joint pain and stiffness can result from many causes, but autoimmune and inflammatory diseases need early detection to prevent joint damage and long-term disability.
This test is commonly recommended when symptoms suggest inflammatory arthritis or unexplained joint problems.
Reasons for testing include:
• Persistent joint pain or swelling
• Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
• Recurring joint inflammation
• Fatigue or general malaise
• Suspected rheumatoid arthritis
• Family history of autoimmune disease
• Recurrent gout attacks
• Unexplained inflammatory symptoms
Early diagnosis allows treatment before joints suffer irreversible damage.
Benefits of the test
1. Detects rheumatoid arthritis early
Anti-CCP antibodies can appear before severe symptoms develop.
2. Helps differentiate types of arthritis
Separates autoimmune arthritis from wear-and-tear joint disease.
3. Measures inflammation levels
ESR shows the presence of ongoing inflammation.
4. Identifies gout risk
Uric acid helps detect metabolic causes of joint pain.
5. Supports treatment monitoring
Useful to track disease activity over time.
6. Guides specialist referral
Helps determine when rheumatology review is needed.
7. Reduces diagnostic uncertainty
Combining markers improves diagnostic clarity.
8. Supports long-term joint protection
Early testing helps prevent joint damage and disability.
Expanded benefit explanation
Autoimmune arthritis can progress silently, damaging joints before diagnosis. A combined rheumatology profile improves early recognition, allowing earlier treatment and improved quality of life.
Step-by-step — How testing works
We offer two UK-wide testing options:
Clinic testing
• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• Attend your appointment
• Blood sample collected by clinician
• Sample analysed in laboratory
• Results securely returned
Home or hotel visit (+£60)
• Phlebotomist visits your home, office, or hotel
• Blood sample collected on-site
• No need to travel
• Sample transported safely to lab
• Results delivered confidentially
Both services are available UK-wide.
Your results explained
Low levels
Markers are not elevated and inflammation appears minimal.
Typical UK reference values:
• ESR: <15 mm/hr (men), <20 mm/hr (women)
• Rheumatoid Factor: <20 IU/mL
• Anti-CCP: Negative (<7 U/mL)
• Uric Acid:
-
Men: 200–430 µmol/L
-
Women: 140–360 µmol/L
Interpretation:
Autoimmune inflammatory arthritis is less likely.
Normal levels
Inflammation and antibody markers fall within expected ranges.
Interpretation:
Symptoms may be mechanical or metabolic rather than autoimmune.
High levels
Raised inflammatory or autoimmune markers detected.
Possible findings:
• Positive Anti-CCP suggesting rheumatoid arthritis
• Elevated Rheumatoid Factor
• Raised ESR indicating inflammation
• High uric acid suggesting gout risk
Interpretation:
Further rheumatology evaluation is usually recommended.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.