What causes false positive test results for rheumatoid arthritis?
In order to test for rheumatoid arthritis, doctors use a test called rheumatoid factor (RF). Although the test often accurately indicates rheumatoid arthritis, a number of causes other than rheumatoid arthritis can trigger a positive result.Autoimmune DiseaseRheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, and other autoimmune diseases can also cause a positive RF test. These include scleroderma, systemic lupus erythematosus, adult Still’s disease, dermatomyositis, sarcoidosis and Sjogren’s syndrome.InfectionInfections can lead to high RF, according to Medline Plus and the Mayo Clinic.
