The prognostic value of the antiperinuclear factor, anti-citrullinated peptide antibodies and rheumatoid factor in early rheumatoid arthritis.

Abstract

APF has prognostic value in addition to RF for joint involvement and radiological damage in early RA. The CCP-ELISA technique for APF assessment may facilitate its use in clinical practice. However, the prognostic value of the two tests lies in their ability to predict mild disease. Reliable identification at baseline of individual patients with progressive disease is still not possible.