Description
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis that affects multiple joints. It leads to joint damage, joint deformation, and disabilities. RA is associated with a number of co-morbidities particularly in the cardiovascular system. The prevalence of RA seems to be relatively uniform around the world. The prevalence of RA in the general population is less than 1% but rises to between 2 – 4% in siblings of RA patients.
RA symptoms frequently include:
Inflammation in the joint with pain, stiffness, redness, warmth to the touch, and swelling
Rheumatoid nodules which are painless lumps, can appear beneath the skin
Additional conditions related to inflammation including abnormal nerve function, enlargement of the spleen, inflammation of the blood vessels, Sjögren’s syndrome, inflammation of the lung or tissue lining of the chest cavity can occur
Gender and genes largely determine a person’s risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. While the specific cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, individuals with the HLA-DR1 or HLA-DR4 alleles have an increased risk for developing the disorder. However, genetics alone are not enough to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis; various lab tests, and x-rays, as well as characteristic signs and symptoms, are generally used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. Genetic testing can contribute to a better understanding of the origin of the disease for improved diagnosis and treatment.
Technology Matters
Our partners at Kashi Clinical Laboratories use the latest in quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction instrumentation with a high degree of sensitivity for detecting gene snips accurately.
Scientific rigor matters
SNP’s are only included in our panels when peer reviewed studies show there is a clear connection with treatment decision making, the studies are relevant across a range of population types, clinical intervention is indicated, and that nutritional or other lifestyle choices can affect the regulation of gene expression.
Results and Resources
Your results will be ready within 5-7 business days of receipt at the lab. Once your results are ready, an InVite® certified healthcare professional will contact you to discuss your results and recommend a supplement protocol based on your specific results.
The programs listed below are recommendations from InVite® Experts and have been developed based on the individual gene mutations that may show up on your test results. Once your results are ready, an InVite® Expert will guide you through the best program for your needs.