What is Rheumatoid Factor (RF)?
Rheumatoid Factor (RF) is an autoantibody that attacks your body's own tissues, specifically targeting the Fc portion of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies. When your immune system mistakenly produces these antibodies, they can cause inflammation in joints and other organs[4][5].
The RA factor test normal range is typically less than 15 IU/mL, though this can vary slightly between laboratories. Values above 20 IU/mL are generally considered positive and warrant further evaluation for autoimmune conditions, particularly rheumatoid arthritis[6][7].
Understanding RF Test Results and Ranges
Rheumatoid factor test result interpretation online requires understanding different RF levels and their clinical significance[4][8]:
Normal RF Levels
Less than 15 IU/mL: Normal range indicating no detectable rheumatoid factor antibodies
Borderline RF
15-20 IU/mL: Borderline results requiring repeat testing and clinical correlation
Positive RF
20-60 IU/mL: Positive results suggesting possible autoimmune condition
High RF Levels
Above 60 IU/mL: High levels strongly indicating active rheumatoid arthritis
High RF Levels: Causes and Symptoms
What is a high level of rheumatoid factor? Generally, RF levels above 60-80 IU/mL are considered high and require immediate medical attention. Very high levels (>100 IU/mL) are strongly associated with more severe joint damage and systemic complications[4][6].
Symptoms of High Rheumatoid Factor:
- Joint pain and stiffness, especially in the morning
- Swelling and warmth in multiple joints
- Fatigue and general malaise
- Low-grade fever
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Rheumatoid nodules under the skin
- Dry eyes and mouth (Sjögren's syndrome)
RF Elevation in Cancer and Other Conditions
What cancer causes high rheumatoid factor? While less common than autoimmune causes, certain malignancies can elevate RF levels[7][9]:
Cancers Associated with High RF:
- Lung cancer (especially adenocarcinoma)
- Primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)
- Lymphoma (Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's)
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
- Multiple myeloma
Other Non-Autoimmune Causes:
- Chronic hepatitis B or C
- Bacterial endocarditis
- Chronic pulmonary infections
- Aging (can cause mild elevation)
- Certain medications
Advanced AI RF Analysis
Our AI provides comprehensive rheumatoid factor test result interpretation online by analyzing multiple factors:
Analysis Features:
- RF level interpretation with normal ranges
- Age and gender-specific risk assessment
- Correlation with other inflammatory markers
- Trend analysis for monitoring
Clinical Insights:
- RA risk stratification
- Follow-up testing recommendations
- Lifestyle modification guidance
- Specialist referral suggestions