Question
I've had tenosynivitus (sp?) for the last year.  I had two surgeries and it's back.  My RA test was 8.3.  I had it done on my own through a naturopath as the RA doctor ordered it but it wasn't done and wanted to put me on methotrexate without the test.   The other RA tests have been negative, as have tests for Lupus, Valley Fever and fungus.  Does the RA test results mean I have RA. Is there anything besides methotrexate that I can use to calm down the synovial linings on the tendons of my hands?

Answer
Cheryl,

Your RA Factor is the the normal range, normal is considered between 0 and 20. The RA Factor test does not mean that you have RA or some other type of autoimmune disease. You can also have RA and other types of autoimmune diseases with a RA Factor of 0.

Methotrexate is not usually used to treat tenosynovitis. In fact it is not used at all to treat it unless it is caused by some type of autoimmune disease.

I assume that you are seeing a Rheumatologist because your other doctors can not find a cause for your tenosynovitis. The fact that it is recurrent and effects both hands does suggest the possibility that RA is the cause or some other form of autoimmune disease. The problem is there are no definitive tests for RA, lupus and other autoimmune diseases. This leaves them only symptoms to go by.

There are many ways to treat RA. Steroids, Corticosteroids, drugs such as methotrexate, Sulfasalazine and others. Each comes with its on risks.

The best thing to do is talk with your Rheumatologist and explain your concerns about methotrexate. Then talk about the treatment options you have and explain that you want to start with the one that has a low risk of side effects.

Rusty
http://arthritis-symptom.com/Rheumatoid-arthritis-symptoms/index.htm