Rheumatoid Arthritis and Pregnancy: Research Review

Cyclic citrullinated protein (CCP) antibodies and rheumatoid factor are antibodies that can indicate rheumatoid arthritis and some other autoimmune diseases. These antibody tests are included in the IRMA report as one of the immunological factors that can impact pregnancy.

Many autoimmune diseases can raise a patient’s chances for adverse pregnancy outcomes, which is why expectant mothers with antiphospholipid syndrome, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune disorders are considered high-risk pregnancies. However, many people remain undiagnosed for autoimmune conditions.

Physiology

Anti-citrullinated protein antibodies (anti-CCP) and rheumatoid factor (RF) are two tests used to detect rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). Elevated RF levels are found in collagen vascular diseases such as SLE, RA, scleroderma, Sjogren’s Syndrome or thyroid disease.

RF is not very specific for RA diagnosis and can also be detected in patients with other rheumatic disorders, infections, as well as in apparently healthy patients¹. Anti-CCP antibodies are more specific than RF for RA².