Rheumatoid Factor, Immunoglobulin M

Athens Research

Rheumatoid Factor, Immunoglobulin M

9

In Vitro Diagnostics, Autoimmune Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis

Research Use Only

Elevation Level: 1000 to 2000 U/ml

Rheumatoid factor IgM (RF-IgM) is an autoantibody produced by the immune system that targets the Fc region of immunoglobulin G (IgG), forming immune complexes that can drive inflammation. RF-IgM is the most clinically significant and commonly measured isotype among rheumatoid factors, present in approximately 70–80% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Functionally, RF-IgM amplifies inflammatory responses by increasing the recruitment of IgG into immune complexes, which then stimulate macrophages to secrete proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-alfa, IL-6, and IL-8, and enhance complement activation, contributing to joint inflammation and tissue damage in RA. High levels of RF-IgM are associated with more severe, progressive disease, greater joint destruction, and increased risk of extra-articular manifestations. Beyond RA, RF-IgM can be elevated in other autoimmune diseases (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus) and chronic infections (e.g., hepatitis C, endocarditis)2. Clinically, RF-IgM serves as a diagnostic and prognostic marker in RA and is used alongside anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies to improve diagnostic accuracy and guide disease management.

more then 1 year

Prepared from plasma shown to be non reactive for HBsAg, anti-HCV, anti-HBc, and negative for anti-HIV 1 & 2 by FDA-required tests.

+2 - 8° C

12352202