Rheumatoid factor

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Rheumatoid Factor

Rheumatoid factor (pronunciation: /ˌruːməˈtɔɪd ˈfæktər/) is an autoantibody that is produced by the body's immune system. The presence of rheumatoid factor in the blood is a common indicator of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren's syndrome.

Etymology

The term "rheumatoid factor" originates from its association with rheumatoid arthritis. The word "rheumatoid" is derived from the Greek "rheumatos", meaning "flowing", and "oid", meaning "resembling". The term "factor" is used in medicine to denote a substance that contributes to the occurrence of a condition or disease.

Function and Clinical Significance

Rheumatoid factor is an immunoglobulin that targets the body's own antibodies, specifically the Fc portion of IgG. This can lead to the formation of immune complexes that contribute to the inflammatory response seen in certain autoimmune diseases.

The presence of rheumatoid factor is most commonly associated with rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect various joints in the body. However, it can also be present in other conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome, lupus, and hepatitis.

Testing for rheumatoid factor is often part of the diagnostic process for these conditions. However, it is important to note that a positive rheumatoid factor test does not definitively confirm a diagnosis, as it can also be present in healthy individuals, particularly the elderly.

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