New England · Arthritis & Inflammation Tests
Arthritis & Inflammation Tests in Massachusetts
Below is a plain-language overview of the arthritis & inflammation tests. Arthritis and inflammation tests are blood tests that look for signs of joint disease and systemic inflammation. They can help identify whether symptoms like joint pain or stiffness may be linked to an inflammatory condition.
Lab requirements in Massachusetts
Here is what you need before ordering and completing the Arthritis & Inflammation Tests in MA. Review each item and confirm the details with the collection lab.
- Physician's order
- Included. A physician's order is required for lab testing and is provided for you by our partner's physicians — no referral from your own doctor is needed.
- Fasting
- Fasting is required for this test — follow the collection lab's instructions.
- Preparation
- Follow the collection lab's instructions regarding fasting or medication timing. Specific preparation can vary by the tests included and the lab performing them.
- Sample & visit
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Identification
- Bring the lab requisition form from your account. The collection lab may also ask for a government-issued photo ID.
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Availability
- Our partner lab does not serve ND, RI, NY, NJ, MD or HI. Confirm availability for your location with the collection lab.
Before you go
- Order your test before visiting a lab, then use the requisition form in your account.
- Print the requisition form, or fax it to the lab directly from your account.
- No scheduling is needed — visit the collection lab during its normal business hours.
- A blood and/or urine sample is collected; the visit usually takes about 10 minutes.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID in case the lab requests it.
- Results are posted to your secure account within 1–3 business days.
Requirements are summarized from our partner lab's published policies. Preparation and availability can change — confirm current instructions with the collection lab before your visit.
What this test is
This panel includes several blood markers that can indicate inflammation or autoimmune activity. It is not a single test but a group of tests that your clinician may order together or individually.
What it measures
- C-reactive protein (CRP) — a general marker of inflammation in the body
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) — an indirect measure of inflammation
- Rheumatoid factor (RF) — an antibody often associated with rheumatoid arthritis
- Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) — an antibody that can support a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis
- Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) — a marker that may suggest an autoimmune process
- Uric acid — a substance that can be elevated in gout
What the test involves
A standard blood draw from a vein in your arm is used for these tests. No special collection method beyond routine phlebotomy is required.
Why it is often ordered
A clinician may order these tests to help evaluate persistent joint pain, swelling, or stiffness. They can also be used to monitor known inflammatory conditions over time.
Preparation
Follow the collection lab's instructions regarding fasting or medication timing. Specific preparation can vary by the tests included and the lab performing them.
How results are reported
Results are typically reported as numeric values with a reference range for each marker. Reference ranges vary by laboratory, so your results should be interpreted in the context of the lab that performed the testing.
Before you go
- Whether any fasting is required before your sample collection
- Which specific markers are included in the panel you are ordering
- How and when results will be shared with you
Cities
Arthritis & Inflammation Tests in Massachusetts communities
Choose your city for local context and to order this test.