Antinuclear Antibody, Rheumatoid Factor, and Cyclic-Citrullinated Peptide Testing for the Evaluation of Musculoskeletal Complaints in Pediatric Populations
Conclusions (2 of 2)
Because the methodological limitations of existing studies prevent further assessment of the sensitivity and specificity of the ANA, RF, and CCP serological tests, their use as diagnostic tests or for broad screening remains unsupported. These serological tests have potential use only as an adjunct to a clinical assessment that suggests the presence of an inflammatory arthritis or connective tissue disease.
ANA = antinuclear antibody
CCP = cyclic-citrullinated peptide
RF = rheumatoid factor
- Wong KO, Bond K, Homik J, et al. Antinuclear Antibody, Rheumatoid Factor, and Cyclic-Citrullinated Peptide Tests for Evaluating Musculoskeletal Complaints in Children. Comparative Effectiveness Review No. 50 (Prepared by the University of Alberta Evidence-based Practice Center under Contract No. HHSA 290-2007-10021-I). Rockville, MD: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality; March 2012. AHRQ Publication No. 12-EHC015-EF. Available at www.effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/anatest.cfm.
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