Positive Rheumatoid Factor

Your symptoms could be due to an infection. Most infections do not go on for six or more weeks, but occasionally it happens.

Examples include

• a bloodstream infection (called subacute bacterial endocarditis)

• virus infections (such as those in the "mono" family)

• chronic forms of hepatitis.

On the other hand, some arthritic disease unrelated to infection can cause fever. Lupus is a good example; rheumatoid arthritis is possible whenever the RF is positive and there is arthritis, but fever this high is unusual. Of course, the fever could be unrelated to the joint trouble.  People with arthritis (including rheumatoid arthritis) can get a fever from a cold or the flu or another infection that is coincidental.

Contact your doctor for evaluation to be sure you do not have an infection causing your joint symptoms and positive RF.

Would you like more information about the rheumatoid factor and various forms of arthritis?

Yes, I'd like more information.

No, I'm all set, thanks.