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Autoantibody Profile for Rheumatoid Factor and Cytoplasmic Autoantibodies (Screen/Confirm)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test checks for antibodies that may indicate certain autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis or other connective tissue disorders. It screens for rheumatoid factor and detects antibodies against cytoplasmic proteins.

Quick summary

["This test helps identify possible autoimmune diseases by detecting abnormal proteins in your blood."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
99598-5
Short code
Dysmorphic RBC/RBC NFr Ur Auto
Synonyms
Dysmorphic RBC/RBC NFr Ur Auto
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
4.2
Ref high
5.9
Critical range
2 N/A – 7 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
automated-count
CPT
85041
SNOMED
900000000000003001
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test measures two key components: **Rheumatoid Factor (RF)**—an antibody that may attack your own joints—and **cytoplasmic autoantibodies**, which can signal inflammation or tissue damage in autoimmune diseases. Results are interpreted in the context of clinical symptoms and other tests.

Why It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, swelling, fatigue, or a history of autoimmune diseases. It’s often used as a **screening or confirmatory test** for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or other inflammatory disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re taking blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Results are not standalone diagnoses. Elevated levels of rheumatoid factor or cytoplasmic autoantibodies may suggest an autoimmune condition, but they don’t confirm a diagnosis alone. Your provider will review results alongside symptoms, physical exams, and other tests.

Reference range

Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Rheumatoid Factor & Cytoplasmic Antibody Panel

Frequently asked questions

What does rheumatoid factor (RF) mean?
Rheumatoid factor is an antibody that can be present in people with rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune diseases. High levels may indicate inflammation in your joints or other tissues, but they can also appear in healthy people or those with infections. Your provider will assess whether the results are concerning based on your symptoms and other test results.
What do cytoplasmic autoantibodies indicate?
Cytoplasmic autoantibodies are proteins that may attack healthy cells in your body. Their presence can signal autoimmune activity, such as in conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or other inflammatory disorders. These antibodies are not specific to one disease, so they’re used alongside other tests to guide diagnosis.
Can this test be false positive?
Yes, both rheumatoid factor and cytoplasmic autoantibodies can be detected in people without autoimmune disease, especially in infections or during pregnancy. False positives are more common with rheumatoid factor. Your provider will interpret results carefully and may repeat testing if needed.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy