Arthritis Profile Test: What is it? List of Tests, Cost, and Where to Get It Done

Are you suffering joint pain, stiffness, or swelling? It might be time to consider obtaining an arthritis profile test.

Early detection is critical for properly managing this painful condition, but many people are still unaware of the critical role an arthritis profile test plays in identifying and treating this prevalent disease.

In this post, we will go over arthritis panel tests, from the numerous types of tests to the price of each one and where you can get them done.

What is Arthritis Profile Test?

Also referred to as Arthritis Panel Test, it is a thorough diagnostic tool used to examine joint health and the existence of arthritis.

This test normally comprises a set of laboratory tests and physical examinations meant to measure the levels of different substances in the blood, the presence of inflammation, and the overall health of the joints.

The test findings are critical for healthcare providers in obtaining an accurate diagnosis and devising an appropriate treatment strategy for arthritis management.

The tests done in an Arthritis Profile includes:

1. Blood Tests
   • CBC– Complete Blood Count
   • Inflammatory markers– ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) and CRP (C-reactive Protein)
   • Rheumatoid markers– Anti-CCP, Anto-nuclear Antibodies (ANA), Rheumatoid Factor (RF), Anti-Streptolysin O (ASO), Complement levels (C4)
   • Calcium and Phosphorus
   • Vitamin D levels
   • Routine tests– LFT (Liver function test where Alkaline Phosphate-ALP is important) and KFT (Kidney Function Test)
   • HLA-B27– This is a genetic marker that helps in excluding diseases like Ankylosing spondylitis, Psoriatic arthritis, Reactive arthritis, and Inflammatory Bowel Diseases like Crohn’s and Ulcerative colitis.
2. X-Rays
   • This is done for the part based on the symptoms. For example, knee pain could mean knee arthritis. Therefore, an x-ray of both knees will be done. The findings can include:
     • Osteoarthritis
       • Loss of joint space
         • Osteophytes forming at joint margins
         • Subchondral sclerosis
         • Subchondral cysts
       • Rheumatoid Arthritis
         • Loss of joint space
         • Juxta-articular osteoporosis
         • Periarticular erosions
         • Subluxation
3. MRI
   • This is done in conjunction with an X-ray to further assess the joint damage. It can reveal signs of joint damage, such as erosion of the bones, joint space narrowing, and the formation of new bone growths (spurs) near the joints.
4. Urine Tests– Urinalysis can help give a rough idea about arthritis or gout with crystals in the urine that can be detected under microscopy.

How much does Arthritis Profile Test Cost?

In India, the Arthritis Panel Test including the blood tests only costs around 2,800-3,500 INR. The X-rays can cost an additional 500-1000 INR. Finally, an MRI of joints is expensive and will cost 5,000-12,000.

Overall, the final price for an Arthritis Profile Test comes to be 10,000-12,000 INR. This is if you are planning to get all tests done.

Should I get all Tests done?

Although all the tests in the panel can help in diagnosing the condition, most of them are usually not required. The best idea is always to start with a plain x-ray of the knee and get it checked by a skilled orthopaedician.

A good doctor can spot the signs of joint destruction. Only then further testing should proceed.

MRI is not recommended unless your diagnosis is not clear. Many rushes to get it done whilst the same job can be done with a simple xray.

Where can I get them done?

While government hospitals don’t do these tests unless required (which is honestly the best practice), you can still get these arthritis profile tests done at private hospitals. These are:

1. Apollo Hospitals – with multiple locations across India.
2. Fortis Hospitals – with multiple locations across India.
3. Max Healthcare – with multiple locations across India.
4. Narayana Health – with multiple locations across India.
5. Medanta – The Medicity – Gurgaon, Haryana.
6. Manipal Hospitals – with multiple locations across India.
7. Kailash Hospitals – with multiple locations across India.
8. CK Birla Hospital for Women – Gurugram, Haryana.

Additionally, various firms also provide these services. Additionally, you can get them done at home through them. The list of these labs is as follows:

1. MaxLabs
2. Dr. Lal path labs
3. Apollo 24/7
4. 1mg
5. HOD (House of Diagnostics)

Conclusion

In conclusion, an arthritis profile test can provide valuable information about the health of your joints and help diagnose the type of arthritis you may be experiencing.

With the wide range of tests available, including X-rays, MRI, and blood tests, healthcare professionals have the tools they need to make an accurate diagnosis and develop an effective treatment plan.

Whether you are looking to manage an existing diagnosis or are seeking a diagnosis for the first time, an arthritis profile test can provide you with the answers you need to take control of your joint health.

Don’t let arthritis hold you back, get tested today and take the first step towards a healthier, more active future.

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