Abstract

Aim: To investigate the relationship between rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) levels of the patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Material and Method: The patients followed up at İzmir Tepecik Teaching Hospital, Clinic of Physical Therapy Department between July 2012-July 2013 by the diagnosis of RA were included. Demographic characteristics and physical examination findings obtained from the patient files were recorded. Acute-phase reactants (erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein), RF, anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) and anti-CCP levels were determined. Results: The mean age of the 36 patients was 49.4 ±14.5 years and 2 male and 34 (%94,4) were female. The involvement of small joints of the hands were 66.7% and upper stem joints were 19.4%. The mean sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein levels were 8.30±9.18/h and 1± 0.7, respectively. The frequency of RF positivity was 72.2%, ANA 47.2% and anti-CCP 86.1%. Anti-CCP was positive at 81.5% of RF positive patients; while positive for all RF negative cases. Conclusion: It is important to evaluate the anti-CCP test for early diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Examination of anti-CCP levels of RF (-) patients admitted by the symptom of joint pain should be required.