What is rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and loss of function. It can also affect other organs. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 1% of the world’s population is affected by RA, with women being three times more affected than men. The disease can occur at any age, but most commonly occurs after age 40 and before age 60. If not properly controlled, rheumatoid arthritis can cause severe disability and shorten life expectancy.
Streptolysin O (ASO), Rheumatoid factor (RF), C-reactive Protein(CRP) and Anti-cyclic Citrullinated Peptide（Anti-CCP) are important markers associated with RA.
How to prevent rheumatoid arthritis?
To help diagnose and monitor RA, Aehealth has developed the ASO and RF Rapid Test Kits and Immunofluorescence analyzer(Lamuno X). These kits utilize a fluorescence immunoassay (FIA) method, which has several advantages in detecting RA-related markers. The FIA method uses LEDs as excitation light sources to collect the light emitted by fluorescent dyes and convert it into electrical signals. This signal is closely related to the amount of fluorescent dye molecules present in the test sample.
After the test sample is applied to the cartridge, it is inserted into the Lamuno X where the concentration of the analyte is calculated through a preprogrammed calibration process. This quantitative measurement of ASO and RF in human whole blood, serum, or plasma provides healthcare professionals with valuable information for the diagnosis and treatment of RA.
Using FIA to detect RA-related markers has several advantages. First, it provides rapid and accurate quantitative measurement for timely diagnosis and monitoring of RA. This is critical to initiating appropriate treatment and assessing the effectiveness of treatment. Furthermore, the FIA method has high sensitivity and specificity, reducing the possibility of false-positive or false-negative results.
Why choose us?
Lamuno X and rapid test kits are designed for ease of use, making them suitable for point-of-care testing in a variety of healthcare settings. This accessibility could increase the efficiency of RA screening and management, particularly in resource-limited areas where access to specialized laboratory facilities may be limited.
In conclusion, the development of the ASO and RF rapid test kits and the Lamuno X represents a significant advance in the detection and monitoring of RA. The use of FIA technology provides a reliable and efficient method for quantitative measurement of RA-related markers, helping to improve patient care and outcomes in treating this debilitating disease.