rheumatoid factor

noun

: an autoantibody of high molecular weight that reacts against IgG immunoglobulins and is often present in rheumatoid arthritis

Examples of rheumatoid factor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web It is classified into two subtypes: rheumatoid factor positive (RF) and rheumatoid factor negative.3 RF is an antibody that contributes to long-term inflammation. Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 26 Sep. 2024 It is divided into two types: rheumatoid factor (RF) negative and RF positive. Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 5 Sep. 2024 Only one type of JIA, polyarticular arthritis positive for IgM rheumatoid factor, is believed to be the same disease as adult RA. Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 5 June 2024 The authors of the report wrote that patients with persistent false-positive results and a history of autoimmune disease with rheumatoid factor may benefit from repeat COVID testing with a different brand of rapid antigen test. Alyssa Hui, Verywell Health, 1 Mar. 2024 One of these blood tests measures the amount of rheumatoid factor (RF), a protein produced by your immune system that can attack healthy tissue, in your body. Women's Health, 4 Apr. 2023 Nearly everyone who is evaluated for psoriatic arthritis will have their blood tested for rheumatoid factor (RF), a protein produced by the immune system that attacks healthy joints. Sara Gaynes Lev, SELF, 30 July 2021 The doctor on call had the presence of mind to do a rheumatoid factor test, which tests for a type of protein that your immune system produces that can attack healthy tissue. Natasha Lavender, SELF, 15 Oct. 2020

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'rheumatoid factor.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of rheumatoid factor was in 1949

Dictionary Entries Near rheumatoid factor

Cite this Entry

“Rheumatoid factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rheumatoid%20factor. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

rheumatoid factor

noun
: an autoantibody of high molecular weight that reacts against immunoglobulins of the class IgG and is often present in rheumatoid arthritis

More from Merriam-Webster on rheumatoid factor

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