Lab Tests.
Last updated Tuesday, January 04, 2005
ConclusionHow can a person with arthritis avoid undergoing unnecessary tests? Blood tests, urine tests, joint fluid tests, biopsies, and X-rays
are useful tools that your doctor relies on to help diagnose and treat
your arthritis. These are by no means all the tests your doctor may
order, but they are some of the most common.
Bear in mind that doctors sometimes can order too many tests. Tests
should only be done when your doctor needs the results to guide
diagnosis or treatment. Unnecessary tests can lead to errors in
diagnosis and treatment. Feel free to ask your doctor about tests that
might be useful in your case. However, realize that more tests are not
always better or even as good as fewer. Your doctor's advice should
guide these decisions.
Communicating honestly with your doctor
is always important. If you don't understand why a certain test is
needed, ask. Your doctor or nurse most likely will gladly explain why
it has been ordered. Credits Some of this material may also be available in an Arthritis Foundation
brochure. Contact the Washington/Alaska Chapter Helpline: (800)
542-0295. If dialing from outside of WA and AK, contact the National
Helpline: (800) 283-7800.
This material was originally prepared for the Arthritis Foundation and is protected by copyright. Disclaimer
This resource has been provided by the University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine as general information only. This information may not apply to a specific patient. Additional information may be found at http://www.orthop.washington.edu or by contacting the UW Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.
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