RESEARCH - FDA approves new test to aid in the diagnosis of RA

[Guest guest]

FDA Approves New Test To Aid In The Diagnosis Of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Article Date: 21 Oct 2009 - 22:00 PDT

An important assay used to aid in the diagnosis of rheumatoid

arthritis (RA) will soon be available on Abbott's ARCHITECT

immunoassay analyzers. The FDA has granted 510(k) clearance for an

antibody cyclic-citrulinated peptide, or anti-CCP assay, to run on the

world class systems.

Many patients with RA develop an immune response against proteins

containing citrulline long before they present symptoms of the

disease. Studies show detecting the level of these antibodies earlier

in the disease continuum, in conjunction with other clinical

information, is critical to the early diagnosis of the disease. The

American College of Rheumatology treatment guidelines for RA

recommends early diagnosis of the disease and timely introduction of

therapies to prevent potentially irreversible joint damage.

****************************************************

Read the full article here:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/168195.php

Not an MD