A 32-year-old woman presents with a 6-week history of pain and stiffness in the small joints of both hands and feet, worse in the morning and lasting ...

Question

A 32-year-old woman presents with a 6-week history of pain and stiffness in the small joints of both hands and feet, worse in the morning and lasting more than an hour. Examination shows synovitis in MCP and PIP joints bilaterally. What is the most appropriate initial investigation to support the suspected diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Serum rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies

Answer

ANA only

Answer

Serum urate

Answer

Plain X-ray of the lumbar spine

Answer

Creatine kinase level

uk-plab-1 MCQ (SBA): Early rheumatoid arthritis – serology