Test Type: Kit Based, Buccal Swab

Overview:

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis that affects multiple synovial lined joints. The natural history of the condition is one of progressive articular damage leading to joint deformation and disabilities. RA is associated with a number of co-morbidities particularly in the cardiovascular system. The prevalence of RA seems to be relatively uniform around the world. The risk of developing RA does however vary between ethnic populations in the same global region, demonstrating a genetic component to this disease. The prevalence of RA in the general population is less than 1% but rises to between 2 – 4% in siblings of RA patients.

Clinical Utility

Gender and genes largely determine a person’s risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. While the specific cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, it is believed that individuals with the HLA-DR1 or HLA-DR4 alleles have an increased risk for developing the disorder. However, genetics alone are not enough to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis; various lab tests, and x-rays, as well as characteristic signs and symptoms, are generally used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. Genetic testing can contribute to a better understanding of the origin of the disease for improved diagnosis and treatment.

Collection Details:

Collection Instructions:

1. Please fill out all sections of the requisition form provided in your kit.

2. Rinse your mouth with cold water before you begin collecting your sample and then swallow to remove excess saliva.

3. Open one swab at a time and collect the sample by rubbing the swab on the inside of your cheek about 20 times or for 15-20 seconds in a circular motion. Swab firmly so that the cheek is pushed outward.

4. Dry the swab by shaking it in the air for 10-20 seconds.

5. Place the dried swab back in its original sleeve.

6. Use the other cheek for the next swabs. Repeat the same process for the rest of the swabs.  Collect sample on all 3 swabs.

6. Place the swab sleeves containing the dry swabs and Requisition Form in the Kashi paper envelope included in the kit.

7. [Important] Sign and fill in your name and date of sample collection on the envelope.

 

 

8. Ship the test kit back to the laboratory using the shipping mailer provided.