Question

A 40-year-old woman presents with 2 years of polyarthralgia, morning stiffness lasting more than 1 hour and symmetrical swelling of the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints. Which investigation is most helpful in confirming the likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies

Answer

Serum urate level

Answer

ANA only

Answer

Plain X-ray of the lumbar spine

Answer

Joint aspirate from a single joint

Practice question

A 40-year-old woman presents with 2 years of polyarthralgia, morning stiffness lasting more than 1 hour and symmetrical swelling of the metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal joints. Which investigation is most helpful in confirming the likely diagnosis?