Diagnostic Tests: When assessing for fibromyalgia, your healthcare provider will typically begin by discussing your symptoms and medical history. A physical examination is also performed. The central feature doctors look for is widespread pain that has persisted across your body for a minimum of three months. A diagnosis generally requires that you feel pain in at least four out of these five body regions: Left upper region, including the shoulder, arm or jaw. Right upper region, including the shoulder, arm or jaw. Left lower region, including the hip, buttock or leg. Right lower region, including the hip, buttock or leg. Axial region, which includes the neck, back, chest or stomach area. Tests Blood work or imaging may be suggested to rule out other possible causes for your symptoms besides fibromyalgia. Several disorders can also result in long-term pain and fatigue, such as: Rheumatoid arthritis. Lupus. Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. You might also undergo tests to detect health conditions that frequently occur alongside fibromyalgia. For instance, if sleep apnea is a concern, your provider could recommend a sleep study overnight. More Information Complete blood count (CBC) Sed rate (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) Resource: Mayo Clinic - Fibromyalgia Diagnosis

Diagnostic Tests: Gout is typically diagnosed by evaluating a person's symptoms and examining the affected joint. Several tests can assist in confirming the diagnosis, such as: Joint fluid analysis: A healthcare provider may extract fluid from the swollen joint using a needle. When examined under a microscope, urate crystals may be identified in the sampl e. Blood test: Measuring the level of uric acid in the blood can help support a diagnosis of gout. However, blood tests are not always definitive—some individuals with elevated uric acid never develop gout, while others may have gout symptoms with normal uric acid levels . X-ray imaging: X-rays can be used to exclude other possible reasons for joint inflammation. Ultrasound: This imaging technique utiliz es sound waves to identify urate crystals in the joints or in deposits known as tophi. Dual-energy computerized tomography (DECT): This advanced scan merges X-ray images taken from different angles to provide a detailed view of urate crystals within the joints. Resource: Mayo Clinic - Gout Diagnosis

Diagnostic Tests: Diagnosing dermatomyositis involves a physical examination and an assessment of muscle strength by a healthcare provider. The following tests are commonly used to aid diagnosis: Blood tests: These may reveal elevated muscle enzyme levels, indicating muscle injury. Blood tests can also identify autoantibodies associated with specific symptoms of dermatomyositis. Chest X-ray: This imaging technique helps detect forms of lung damage that can occur in people with dermatomyositis. Electromyography: In this procedure, a thin needle electrode is inserted into a muscle to record its electrical activity during contraction and relaxation. Abnormal patterns may indicate muscle disease, and testing multiple muscles can help determine which are involved . MRI: Magnetic fields and radio waves generate detailed images of muscles, allowing detection of inflammation or swelling in extensive areas of affected muscle tissu e. Skin or muscle biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken from the skin or muscle and examined in a laboratory. A skin biopsy can confirm dermatomyositis, while a muscle biopsy can reveal muscle damage and inflammation. If the skin biopsy provides a definitive diagnosis, a muscle biopsy may not be necessary. Lung tests: To evaluate lung function, a healthcare provider might recommend pulmonary tests and a chest CT scan, especially if specific autoantibodies—linked to interstitial lung disease, a type of lung scarring associated with dermatomyositis—are present . More Information Electromyography (EMG) ENA test MRI Skin biopsy Resource: Mayo Clinic - Dermatomyositis Diagnosis

Diagnostic Tests: During a physical examination, a medical provider will assess the affected joint for signs such as tenderness, swelling, and range of motion. Imaging tests To visualize the affected joint, your provider may suggest certain imaging tests, including: X-rays: While cartilage itself does not show up on X-rays, loss of cartilage may be indicated by a reduced space between bones. Additionally, X-rays can reveal bone spurs near the joint. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): MRI scans use radio waves and magnetic fields to generate detailed pictures of bones and soft tissues, such as cartilage. Though not always necessary for diagnosing osteoarthritis, MRIs may be helpful in more complicated situations. Lab tests Examining blood samples or fluid drawn from the joint can assist in confirming the diagnosis. Blood tests: There is no definitive blood test for osteoarthritis, but laboratory tests can help eliminate other conditions that cause joint pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Joint fluid analysis: A sample of fluid may be taken from the joint using a needle. The analysis helps determine if joint pain is due to other forms of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis or gout, or if an infection is present instead of osteoarthritis. More Information MRI X-ray Resource: Mayo Clinic - Osteoarthritis Diagnosis

Diagnostic Tests: If you are experiencing symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, a healthcare professional will usually begin with a physical exam to assess your condition. During this exam, they may: Assess your joints for any signs of swelling or tenderness. Look at your fingernails to see if they have pits or are peeling. Apply pressure to the bottoms of your feet and around your heels to find any painful areas. There isn’t one specific test to diagnose psoriatic arthritis. However, different tests can help exclude other possible causes of joint pain, like rheumatoid arthritis or gout. Imaging tests X-ray images can show joint changes that are typical for psoriatic arthritis and differ from those seen in other arthritis type s. MRI scans create detailed pictures of bones, joints, and soft tissues. They are particularly useful for evaluating tendons and ligaments in areas like the feet and lower back. Laboratory tests A rheumatoid factor (RF) test loo ks for an antibody that is usually present in people with rheumatoid arthritis. If this antibody is missing, it can help a healthcare professional lean toward a diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis. To check for gout, a healthcare professional may take a small sample of fluid from a swollen joint, typically the knee. If uric acid crystals are present in the sample , it may indicate gout. It is possible to have both gout and psoriatic arthritis. More Information MRI Rheumatoid factor X-ray Resource: Mayo Clinic - PsA Diagnosis

Diagnostic Tests: Sarcoidosis is often difficult to detect early because symptoms may be mild or absent. When symptoms arise, they can be mistaken for other health conditions, which complicates the diagnostic process. During a routine checkup, a doctor may examine your body, discuss your medical history and possible risks, listen to your chest, check for swollen lymph nodes, and look for unusual changes in your skin. While no single test can confirm sarcoidosis, doctors use various procedures to exclude other diseases and determine which organs may be affected. Some of these procedures include: Blood and urine analyses provide information about your overall health, including how well your kidneys and liver are functioning. A chest X-ray helps doctors visualize the lungs and heart to check for signs of disease. A CT scan of the chest offers more detailed images of the lungs than a standard X-ray. Lung function tests measure how much air you can inhale and exhale, as well as how effectively your lungs deliver oxygen to your blood. To assess your heart's health, tests like an EKG and an ultrasound of the heart (echocardiogram) may be performed. An eye exam can reveal vision changes or other issues that could be related to sarcoidosis. If doctors suspect that sarcoidosis is affecting your heart or brain, advanced imaging tests like PET scans or MRI might be used for further evaluation. Additional tests may be recommended, depending on your symptoms and health history. Biopsy Doctors sometimes remove a tiny piece of tissue (biopsy) from an organ or area that might have sarcoidosis. The tissue is examined under a microscope for granulomas, which are clusters of inflamed cells typical in this disease. Biopsies are often taken from the skin, lungs, or lymph nodes. More Information Sarcoidosis care at Mayo Clinic CT scan Skin biopsy X-ray Resource: Mayo Clinic - Sarcoidosis Diagnosis

Diagnostic Tests: The process of diagnosing vasculitis often starts with your doctor gathering information about your health history and conducting a physical exam. To establish the cause of your symptoms, your doctor may order different tests and procedures. The following are frequently used methods to help identify vasculitis: Blood tests: These tests can show signs of inflammation, such as elevated C-reactive protein. A complete blood count (CBC) assesses your red blood cell levels, and specialized tests like the antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) test may be used to detect antibodies linked to vasculitis. Imaging tests: These are used to see which blood vessels and organs may be affected by vasculitis and to follow how you respond to treatment. Common kinds of imaging include X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, and PET scans. Angiography: This technique uses a special dye that is injected into your blood vessels, followed by a series of X-rays. The images allow doctors to see the shape and condition of your arteries and veins, making it easier to spot any problem s. Biopsy: Sometimes, a doctor removes a tiny piece of tissue from the part of your body that might be affected. This sample is view ed under a microscope for evidence of vasculitis. More Information CT scan MRI Ultrasound Urinalysis X-ray Resource: Mayo Clinic - Vasculitis Diagnosis

Diagnostic Tests: When assessing for fibromyalgia, your healthcare provider will typically begin by discussing your symptoms and medical history. A physical examination is also performed. The central feature doctors look for is widespread pain that has persisted across your body for a minimum of three months. A diagnosis generally requires that you feel pain in at least four out of these five body regions: Left upper region, including the shoulder, arm or jaw. Right upper region, including the shoulder, arm or jaw. Left lower region, including the hip, buttock or leg. Right lower region, including the hip, buttock or leg. Axial region, which includes the neck, back, chest or stomach area. Tests Blood work or imaging may be suggested to rule out other possible causes for your symptoms besides fibromyalgia. Several disorders can also result in long-term pain and fatigue, such as: Rheumatoid arthritis. Lupus. Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. You might also undergo tests to detect health conditions that frequently occur alongside fibromyalgia. For instance, if sleep apnea is a concern, your provider could recommend a sleep study overnight. More Information Complete blood count (CBC) Sed rate (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) Resource: Mayo Clinic – Fibromyalgia Diagnosis

Diagnostic Tests: Gout is typically diagnosed by evaluating a person’s symptoms and examining the affected joint. Several tests can assist in confirming the diagnosis, such as: Joint fluid analysis: A healthcare provider may extract fluid from the swollen joint using a needle. When examined under a microscope, urate crystals may be identified in the sampl e. Blood test: Measuring the level of uric acid in the blood can help support a diagnosis of gout. However, blood tests are not always definitive—some individuals with elevated uric acid never develop gout, while others may have gout symptoms with normal uric acid levels . X-ray imaging: X-rays can be used to exclude other possible reasons for joint inflammation. Ultrasound: This imaging technique utiliz es sound waves to identify urate crystals in the joints or in deposits known as tophi. Dual-energy computerized tomography (DECT): This advanced scan merges X-ray images taken from different angles to provide a detailed view of urate crystals within the joints. Resource: Mayo Clinic – Gout Diagnosis

Diagnostic Tests: Diagnosing dermatomyositis involves a physical examination and an assessment of muscle strength by a healthcare provider. The following tests are commonly used to aid diagnosis: Blood tests: These may reveal elevated muscle enzyme levels, indicating muscle injury. Blood tests can also identify autoantibodies associated with specific symptoms of dermatomyositis. Chest X-ray: This imaging technique helps detect forms of lung damage that can occur in people with dermatomyositis. Electromyography: In this procedure, a thin needle electrode is inserted into a muscle to record its electrical activity during contraction and relaxation. Abnormal patterns may indicate muscle disease, and testing multiple muscles can help determine which are involved . MRI: Magnetic fields and radio waves generate detailed images of muscles, allowing detection of inflammation or swelling in extensive areas of affected muscle tissu e. Skin or muscle biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken from the skin or muscle and examined in a laboratory. A skin biopsy can confirm dermatomyositis, while a muscle biopsy can reveal muscle damage and inflammation. If the skin biopsy provides a definitive diagnosis, a muscle biopsy may not be necessary. Lung tests: To evaluate lung function, a healthcare provider might recommend pulmonary tests and a chest CT scan, especially if specific autoantibodies—linked to interstitial lung disease, a type of lung scarring associated with dermatomyositis—are present . More Information Electromyography (EMG) ENA test MRI Skin biopsy Resource: Mayo Clinic – Dermatomyositis Diagnosis

Diagnostic Tests: During a physical examination, a medical provider will assess the affected joint for signs such as tenderness, swelling, and range of motion. Imaging tests To visualize the affected joint, your provider may suggest certain imaging tests, including: X-rays: While cartilage itself does not show up on X-rays, loss of cartilage may be indicated by a reduced space between bones. Additionally, X-rays can reveal bone spurs near the joint. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): MRI scans use radio waves and magnetic fields to generate detailed pictures of bones and soft tissues, such as cartilage. Though not always necessary for diagnosing osteoarthritis, MRIs may be helpful in more complicated situations. Lab tests Examining blood samples or fluid drawn from the joint can assist in confirming the diagnosis. Blood tests: There is no definitive blood test for osteoarthritis, but laboratory tests can help eliminate other conditions that cause joint pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Joint fluid analysis: A sample of fluid may be taken from the joint using a needle. The analysis helps determine if joint pain is due to other forms of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis or gout, or if an infection is present instead of osteoarthritis. More Information MRI X-ray Resource: Mayo Clinic – Osteoarthritis Diagnosis

Diagnostic Tests: If you are experiencing symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, a healthcare professional will usually begin with a physical exam to assess your condition. During this exam, they may: Assess your joints for any signs of swelling or tenderness. Look at your fingernails to see if they have pits or are peeling. Apply pressure to the bottoms of your feet and around your heels to find any painful areas. There isn’t one specific test to diagnose psoriatic arthritis. However, different tests can help exclude other possible causes of joint pain, like rheumatoid arthritis or gout. Imaging tests X-ray images can show joint changes that are typical for psoriatic arthritis and differ from those seen in other arthritis type s. MRI scans create detailed pictures of bones, joints, and soft tissues. They are particularly useful for evaluating tendons and ligaments in areas like the feet and lower back. Laboratory tests A rheumatoid factor (RF) test loo ks for an antibody that is usually present in people with rheumatoid arthritis. If this antibody is missing, it can help a healthcare professional lean toward a diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis. To check for gout, a healthcare professional may take a small sample of fluid from a swollen joint, typically the knee. If uric acid crystals are present in the sample , it may indicate gout. It is possible to have both gout and psoriatic arthritis. More Information MRI Rheumatoid factor X-ray Resource: Mayo Clinic – PsA Diagnosis

Diagnostic Tests: Sarcoidosis is often difficult to detect early because symptoms may be mild or absent. When symptoms arise, they can be mistaken for other health conditions, which complicates the diagnostic process. During a routine checkup, a doctor may examine your body, discuss your medical history and possible risks, listen to your chest, check for swollen lymph nodes, and look for unusual changes in your skin. While no single test can confirm sarcoidosis, doctors use various procedures to exclude other diseases and determine which organs may be affected. Some of these procedures include: Blood and urine analyses provide information about your overall health, including how well your kidneys and liver are functioning. A chest X-ray helps doctors visualize the lungs and heart to check for signs of disease. A CT scan of the chest offers more detailed images of the lungs than a standard X-ray. Lung function tests measure how much air you can inhale and exhale, as well as how effectively your lungs deliver oxygen to your blood. To assess your heart’s health, tests like an EKG and an ultrasound of the heart (echocardiogram) may be performed. An eye exam can reveal vision changes or other issues that could be related to sarcoidosis. If doctors suspect that sarcoidosis is affecting your heart or brain, advanced imaging tests like PET scans or MRI might be used for further evaluation. Additional tests may be recommended, depending on your symptoms and health history. Biopsy Doctors sometimes remove a tiny piece of tissue (biopsy) from an organ or area that might have sarcoidosis. The tissue is examined under a microscope for granulomas, which are clusters of inflamed cells typical in this disease. Biopsies are often taken from the skin, lungs, or lymph nodes. More Information Sarcoidosis care at Mayo Clinic CT scan Skin biopsy X-ray Resource: Mayo Clinic – Sarcoidosis Diagnosis

Diagnostic Tests: The process of diagnosing vasculitis often starts with your doctor gathering information about your health history and conducting a physical exam. To establish the cause of your symptoms, your doctor may order different tests and procedures. The following are frequently used methods to help identify vasculitis: Blood tests: These tests can show signs of inflammation, such as elevated C-reactive protein. A complete blood count (CBC) assesses your red blood cell levels, and specialized tests like the antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) test may be used to detect antibodies linked to vasculitis. Imaging tests: These are used to see which blood vessels and organs may be affected by vasculitis and to follow how you respond to treatment. Common kinds of imaging include X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, and PET scans. Angiography: This technique uses a special dye that is injected into your blood vessels, followed by a series of X-rays. The images allow doctors to see the shape and condition of your arteries and veins, making it easier to spot any problem s. Biopsy: Sometimes, a doctor removes a tiny piece of tissue from the part of your body that might be affected. This sample is view ed under a microscope for evidence of vasculitis. More Information CT scan MRI Ultrasound Urinalysis X-ray Resource: Mayo Clinic – Vasculitis Diagnosis

Diagnostic Tests: Check All Diseases

Adult-Onset Still’s Disease

Diagnostic Tests:

There is no single test that confirms adult Still’s disease. Imaging studies can detect damage related to the condition, while blood tests are useful for excluding other diseases with similar symptoms.

More Information

Resource:

Mayoclinic Adult Onset stills disease

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Diagnostic Tests:

Diagnosing ankylosing spondylitis typically involves a healthcare provider gathering information about your personal and family medical history, along with a description of your symptoms. A physical examination is often conducted to assess posture, flexibility, and identify painful or stiff areas. Additionally, you might be instructed to take a deep breath so the provider can evaluate any challenges with chest expansion.

Resource: Mayo Clinic – AS Diagnosis

Antiphospholipid Syndrome

Diagnostic Tests:

If you have experienced unexplained blood clots or repeated pregnancy loss, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider. Your provider may recommend blood tests to detect clotting issues and screen for antibodies linked to antiphospholipid syndrome.

For a definitive diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome, the relevant antibodies must be found in your blood on two separate occasions, with tests spaced at least 12 weeks apart.

Some people have antiphospholipid antibodies without ever developing symptoms. The condition is only diagnosed as antiphospholipid syndrome if these antibodies actually lead to medical complications.

Resource: Mayo Clinic – APS Diagnosis

Fibromyalgia

Diagnostic Tests:

When assessing for fibromyalgia, your healthcare provider will typically begin by discussing your symptoms and medical history. A physical examination is also performed. The central feature doctors look for is widespread pain that has persisted across your body for a minimum of three months.

A diagnosis generally requires that you feel pain in at least four out of these five body regions:

Left upper region, including the shoulder, arm or jaw.
Right upper region, including the shoulder, arm or jaw.
Left lower region, including the hip, buttock or leg.
Right lower region, including the hip, buttock or leg.
Axial region, which includes the neck, back, chest or stomach area.

Tests

Blood work or imaging may be suggested to rule out other possible causes for your symptoms besides fibromyalgia.

Several disorders can also result in long-term pain and fatigue, such as:

Rheumatoid arthritis.
Lupus.
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome.

You might also undergo tests to detect health conditions that frequently occur alongside fibromyalgia. For instance, if sleep apnea is a concern, your provider could recommend a sleep study overnight.

More Information

Resource: Mayo Clinic – Fibromyalgia Diagnosis

Gout

Diagnostic Tests:

Gout is typically diagnosed by evaluating a person’s symptoms and examining the affected joint. Several tests can assist in confirming the diagnosis, such as:

Joint fluid analysis: A healthcare provider may extract fluid from the swollen joint using a needle. When examined under a microscope, urate crystals may be identified in the sample.
Blood test: Measuring the level of uric acid in the blood can help support a diagnosis of gout. However, blood tests are not always definitive—some individuals with elevated uric acid never develop gout, while others may have gout symptoms with normal uric acid levels.
X-ray imaging: X-rays can be used to exclude other possible reasons for joint inflammation.
Ultrasound: This imaging technique utilizes sound waves to identify urate crystals in the joints or in deposits known as tophi.
Dual-energy computerized tomography (DECT): This advanced scan merges X-ray images taken from different angles to provide a detailed view of urate crystals within the joints.

Resource: Mayo Clinic – Gout Diagnosis

Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus)

Diagnostic Tests:

Diagnosing lupus can be challenging since symptoms differ widely between individuals, may evolve over time, and often resemble those of other diseases. There is no single test to diagnose lupus. Healthcare providers typically rely on a combination of blood and urine tests, a review of symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination to make a diagnosis.

Laboratory tests

Blood and urine tests may include:

Complete blood count: This test evaluates the quantities of red and white blood cells, platelets, and the hemoglobin content in red blood cells. Anemia is a common finding in lupus, and the condition may also result in reduced white blood cell or platelet counts.
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): Also known as sed rate, this blood test detects levels of inflammation in the body by measuring how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube. An elevated rate can indicate an inflammatory condition like lupus.
C-reactive protein (CRP) test: This blood test is used to assess inflammation levels in the body.
Kidney and liver function tests: Blood tests can help determine how effectively your kidneys and liver are functioning.
Urine tests: A urine sample may reveal increased protein or the presence of red blood cells, which can occur if lupus impacts the kidneys.
Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test: This test detects antibodies that may attack the body’s own tissues. While most individuals with lupus test positive for ANA, a positive result does not always mean lupus is present, so additional tests may be required.

Imaging tests

If lupus is suspected to be affecting the heart or lungs, the following tests might be performed:

Chest X-ray: This imaging test can reveal signs of fluid accumulation, swelling, or inflammation in the lungs.
Echocardiogram: Using sound waves, this test creates images of the heart in motion and can identify problems with heart valves, function, or other structures.

Biopsy

Lupus may damage the kidneys in several ways, and treatment depends on the specific type and extent of inflammation and injury. Occasionally, a small sample of kidney tissue is collected using a needle guided by ultrasound to help determine the most appropriate treatment.

In some cases, a skin biopsy is performed to confirm a diagnosis of lupus that involves the skin.

More Information

Show less related information

Resource: Mayo Clinic – Lupus Diagnosis

Dermatomyositis

Diagnostic Tests:

Diagnosing dermatomyositis involves a physical examination and an assessment of muscle strength by a healthcare provider. The following tests are commonly used to aid diagnosis:

Blood tests: These may reveal elevated muscle enzyme levels, indicating muscle injury. Blood tests can also identify autoantibodies associated with specific symptoms of dermatomyositis.
Chest X-ray: This imaging technique helps detect forms of lung damage that can occur in people with dermatomyositis.
Electromyography: In this procedure, a thin needle electrode is inserted into a muscle to record its electrical activity during contraction and relaxation. Abnormal patterns may indicate muscle disease, and testing multiple muscles can help determine which are involved.
MRI: Magnetic fields and radio waves generate detailed images of muscles, allowing detection of inflammation or swelling in extensive areas of affected muscle tissue.
Skin or muscle biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken from the skin or muscle and examined in a laboratory. A skin biopsy can confirm dermatomyositis, while a muscle biopsy can reveal muscle damage and inflammation.
If the skin biopsy provides a definitive diagnosis, a muscle biopsy may not be necessary.
Lung tests: To evaluate lung function, a healthcare provider might recommend pulmonary tests and a chest CT scan, especially if specific autoantibodies—linked to interstitial lung disease, a type of lung scarring associated with dermatomyositis—are present.

More Information

Resource: Mayo Clinic – Dermatomyositis Diagnosis

Osteoarthritis

Diagnostic Tests:

During a physical examination, a medical provider will assess the affected joint for signs such as tenderness, swelling, and range of motion.

Imaging tests

To visualize the affected joint, your provider may suggest certain imaging tests, including:

X-rays: While cartilage itself does not show up on X-rays, loss of cartilage may be indicated by a reduced space between bones. Additionally, X-rays can reveal bone spurs near the joint.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): MRI scans use radio waves and magnetic fields to generate detailed pictures of bones and soft tissues, such as cartilage. Though not always necessary for diagnosing osteoarthritis, MRIs may be helpful in more complicated situations.

Lab tests

Examining blood samples or fluid drawn from the joint can assist in confirming the diagnosis.

Blood tests: There is no definitive blood test for osteoarthritis, but laboratory tests can help eliminate other conditions that cause joint pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Joint fluid analysis: A sample of fluid may be taken from the joint using a needle. The analysis helps determine if joint pain is due to other forms of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis or gout, or if an infection is present instead of osteoarthritis.

More Information

Resource: Mayo Clinic – Osteoarthritis Diagnosis

Osteoporosis

Diagnostic Tests:

Osteoporosis is typically identified by doctors during regular screenings. It may also be noticed when a patient gets an X-ray for a broken bone, or incidentally if an X-ray is performed for another reason, such as checking the chest.

A healthcare provider might examine you to look for changes in your height, posture, or other physical signs. They can also order a test that measures how dense your bones are.

To measure bone density, a special scan uses low doses of X-rays to find out how much mineral is in your bones. This procedure, known as a DEXA or DXA scan, is painless. You simply lie on a padded table while the scanner moves over your body, usually focusing on your hips and spine.

More Information

Bone density test

Resource: Mayo Clinic – Osteoporosis Diagnosis

Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Diagnostic Tests:

Your healthcare provider may use a physical examination and lab tests to find out what is causing your pain and stiffness. The exam could include checking your joints and your nervous system, sometimes called a neurological exam. As part of this, your provider might gently move your head and limbs to see how well they move.

Diagnoses can sometimes change over time. For example, someone first thought to have polymyalgia rheumatica may later be diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis or giant cell arteritis as more information becomes available.

Tests you might have include:

Blood tests. Besides reviewing your complete blood count, your healthcare provider will check for signs of inflammation using tests like erythrocyte sedimentation rate (sed rate) and C-reactive protein. These proteins are often, but not always, higher in people with this condition.
Imaging tests. An ultrasound can detect inflammation in your joints and soft tissues and may help diagnose polymyalgia rheumatica. In some cases, an MRI or PET scan might be done to look for other sources of joint pain.

Watching for giant cell arteritis

Your healthcare provider will watch for signs that might suggest the development of giant cell arteritis. If you notice any of the following symptoms, reach out to your provider right away:

New headaches or headaches that don’t go away.
Jaw pain or tenderness.
Blurred or double vision or vision loss.
Tender scalp.

To confirm giant cell arteritis, your provider may order an ultrasound or take a small tissue sample (biopsy) from an artery in your temple. The sample is studied under a microscope, and the area is numbed before the procedure to keep you comfortable.

More Information

Resource: Mayo Clinic – PMR Diagnosis

Psoriatic Arthritis

Diagnostic Tests:

If you are experiencing symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, a healthcare professional will usually begin with a physical exam to assess your condition. During this exam, they may:

Assess your joints for any signs of swelling or tenderness.
Look at your fingernails to see if they have pits or are peeling.
Apply pressure to the bottoms of your feet and around your heels to find any painful areas.

There isn’t one specific test to diagnose psoriatic arthritis. However, different tests can help exclude other possible causes of joint pain, like rheumatoid arthritis or gout.

Imaging tests

X-ray images can show joint changes that are typical for psoriatic arthritis and differ from those seen in other arthritis types.
MRI scans create detailed pictures of bones, joints, and soft tissues. They are particularly useful for evaluating tendons and ligaments in areas like the feet and lower back.

Laboratory tests

A rheumatoid factor (RF) test looks for an antibody that is usually present in people with rheumatoid arthritis. If this antibody is missing, it can help a healthcare professional lean toward a diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis.
To check for gout, a healthcare professional may take a small sample of fluid from a swollen joint, typically the knee. If uric acid crystals are present in the sample, it may indicate gout. It is possible to have both gout and psoriatic arthritis.

More Information

Resource: Mayo Clinic – PsA Diagnosis

Reactive Arthritis

Diagnostic Tests:

Diagnosing reactive arthritis typically begins with a physical examination. Your healthcare provider will look for joint swelling, warmth, and tenderness. You might be asked to perform movements that test the flexibility of your spine and other affected joints. In addition, your provider may check your eyes for inflammation and inspect your skin for any unusual rashes.

Blood tests

Blood tests are often used to look for evidence that supports a diagnosis of reactive arthritis. Healthcare providers may order tests to check for:

A current or past infection.
Inflammation in your body.
Antibodies that could point to other types of arthritis.
A genetic marker called HLA-B27 that is sometimes linked to reactive arthritis.

Joint fluid tests

A healthcare provider might withdraw a small amount of fluid from an affected joint using a needle. This procedure can help rule out other possible causes of joint symptoms. The sample is analyzed for:

White blood cells. High levels can mean inflammation or infection.
Bacteria. If bacteria are found, it may suggest a joint infection known as septic arthritis, which has the potential to seriously damage the joint.
Crystals. Finding uric acid crystals can point to gout, a different form of arthritis that frequently affects the big toe.

Imaging tests

Imaging studies, such as X-rays of the lower back, pelvis, and joints, may be performed to look for changes associated with reactive arthritis or to exclude other types of arthritis.

More Information

X-ray

Resource: Mayo Clinic – Reactive Arthritis Diagnosis

Relapsing Polychondritis

Diagnostic Tests:

There is currently no specific test available to definitively diagnose relapsing polychondritis. Healthcare providers typically make a diagnosis based on the presence of at least three characteristic symptoms that develop over time. In some cases, a biopsy of the ear cartilage or certain blood tests may provide supportive evidence for the diagnosis.

Resource: Clevelandclinic Relapsing Polychondritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Diagnostic Tests:

Early signs of rheumatoid arthritis can be difficult to distinguish because they often appear similar to symptoms of other diseases.

During a physical exam, your doctor will look for swelling, redness, or warmth in your joints and may also check how strong your muscles are and how well your reflexes work.

Blood tests

People who have rheumatoid arthritis often have higher levels of inflammation in their bodies, which can be seen in tests like the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) or C-reactive protein (CRP). Blood tests are also used to check for rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP antibodies.

Imaging tests

Doctors may use imaging tests like X-rays to see how rheumatoid arthritis changes your joints over time. MRI and ultrasound scans can also help show how much damage the disease has caused.

More Information

Resource: Mayo Clinic – RA Diagnosis

Sarcoidosis

Diagnostic Tests:

Sarcoidosis is often difficult to detect early because symptoms may be mild or absent. When symptoms arise, they can be mistaken for other health conditions, which complicates the diagnostic process.

During a routine checkup, a doctor may examine your body, discuss your medical history and possible risks, listen to your chest, check for swollen lymph nodes, and look for unusual changes in your skin.

While no single test can confirm sarcoidosis, doctors use various procedures to exclude other diseases and determine which organs may be affected. Some of these procedures include:

Blood and urine analyses provide information about your overall health, including how well your kidneys and liver are functioning.
A chest X-ray helps doctors visualize the lungs and heart to check for signs of disease.
A CT scan of the chest offers more detailed images of the lungs than a standard X-ray.
Lung function tests measure how much air you can inhale and exhale, as well as how effectively your lungs deliver oxygen to your blood.
To assess your heart’s health, tests like an EKG and an ultrasound of the heart (echocardiogram) may be performed.
An eye exam can reveal vision changes or other issues that could be related to sarcoidosis.
If doctors suspect that sarcoidosis is affecting your heart or brain, advanced imaging tests like PET scans or MRI might be used for further evaluation.

Additional tests may be recommended, depending on your symptoms and health history.

Biopsy

Doctors sometimes remove a tiny piece of tissue (biopsy) from an organ or area that might have sarcoidosis. The tissue is examined under a microscope for granulomas, which are clusters of inflamed cells typical in this disease. Biopsies are often taken from the skin, lungs, or lymph nodes.

More Information

Resource: Mayo Clinic – Sarcoidosis Diagnosis

Scleroderma

Diagnostic Tests:

Scleroderma presents in multiple ways and can impact several organs, making diagnosis challenging.

Following a comprehensive physical examination, your healthcare provider might order blood work to detect higher amounts of certain immune system antibodies.

Additional tests, such as more blood work, imaging, or assessments of organ function, may be suggested to see if organs like the digestive system, heart, lungs, or kidneys are involved.

More Information

ENA test

Resource: Mayo Clinic – Scleroderma Diagnosis

Sjogren’s Syndrome

Diagnostic Tests:

Diagnosing Sjogren’s syndrome is challenging because symptoms differ among individuals and may look similar to those of other illnesses. Furthermore, certain medications can produce effects that imitate Sjogren’s syndrome symptoms.

Medical tests are used to exclude other possible causes and to help confirm if someone has Sjogren’s syndrome.

Blood tests

Doctors may order blood tests to examine:

Levels of different types of blood cells
Presence of antibodies common in Sjogren’s syndrome
Evidence of inflammatory conditions
Indications of problems with your liver and kidneys

Eye tests

To assess eye dryness, a Schirmer tear test may be performed, where a small strip of filter paper is placed beneath the lower eyelid to evaluate tear production.

An eye specialist may also inspect the eye’s surface using a slit lamp, a magnifying tool. Special eye drops can be applied to highlight any damage to the cornea.

Imaging

Imaging techniques are available to evaluate how well the salivary glands are working.

Sialogram: This type of X-ray uses a dye injected into the salivary glands near the ears, allowing doctors to visualize saliva flow into the mouth.
Salivary scintigraphy: This diagnostic procedure involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material into a vein and monitoring how quickly it travels to each salivary gland.

Biopsy

A lip biopsy may be performed to search for groups of inflammatory cells that suggest Sjogren’s syndrome. During this procedure, a small piece of tissue is taken from the lip’s salivary glands and analyzed under a microscope.

More Information

Resource: Mayo Clinic – Sjögren’s Syndrome Diagnosis

Spondyloarthritis

Diagnostic Tests:

Diagnosing spondyloarthritis can be challenging, particularly when symptoms are not typical. Some individuals may only have joint pain and stiffness, which are common in many other conditions.

Your healthcare provider will likely start by discussing your symptoms and asking whether you have experienced any related issues. They will also gather details about your personal and family medical background.

A physical examination of your back or other joints may be performed to check your flexibility and movement. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, might be used to look for inflammation or damage, but sometimes changes are not visible early on.

Blood tests may be recommended to look for markers of inflammation or immune system activity. Testing for the HLA-B27 gene is also common. These results can help rule out other conditions and support a diagnosis of spondyloarthritis.

Resource: Cleveland Clinic – Spondyloarthritis Diagnosis

Takayasu’s Arteritis

Diagnostic Tests:

To diagnose Takayasu arteritis, your doctor will review your symptoms, examine you physically, and learn about your medical history. Additional tests may be recommended to identify the disease and eliminate other similar conditions. These tests are also useful for tracking how you respond to treatment.
Tests and procedures might include:
- Blood tests. These can reveal inflammation in the body or a reduced red blood cell count (anemia).
- Angiography, or X-rays of blood vessels, involves threading a thin tube (catheter) into a major artery or vein, then injecting a contrast dye. This dye makes the blood vessels visible on X-ray images.
- These images reveal whether blood flow is normal or restricted. Restricted flow is often due to narrowed arteries, known as stenosis, which commonly affects people with Takayasu arteritis in multiple locations.
- Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is a less invasive way to see blood vessels, providing detailed images without the need for catheters or traditional X-rays.
- MRA works by using strong magnets and radio waves to generate images of tissues. A contrast agent may be injected during the scan to better highlight blood vessels.
- CT angiography is another noninvasive imaging technique, combining X-ray images and computer processing. A contrast dye is injected, allowing doctors to assess the aorta and nearby blood vessels, as well as monitor blood flow.
- Ultrasonography. Doppler ultrasound, a more advanced technique, provides detailed images of artery walls—often in the neck and shoulder—and can sometimes detect changes before other scans do.
- Positron emission tomography (PET) scans are often used together with CT or MRI. This imaging can show the degree of inflammation in blood vessels. A radioactive tracer is injected to help highlight areas with poor blood flow.
More Information

Resource: Mayo Clinic – Takayasu’s Arteritis Diagnosis

Vasculitis

Diagnostic Tests:

The process of diagnosing vasculitis often starts with your doctor gathering information about your health history and conducting a physical exam. To establish the cause of your symptoms, your doctor may order different tests and procedures. The following are frequently used methods to help identify vasculitis:

Blood tests: These tests can show signs of inflammation, such as elevated C-reactive protein. A complete blood count (CBC) assesses your red blood cell levels, and specialized tests like the antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) test may be used to detect antibodies linked to vasculitis.
Imaging tests: These are used to see which blood vessels and organs may be affected by vasculitis and to follow how you respond to treatment. Common kinds of imaging include X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, and PET scans.
Angiography: This technique uses a special dye that is injected into your blood vessels, followed by a series of X-rays. The images allow doctors to see the shape and condition of your arteries and veins, making it easier to spot any problems.
Biopsy: Sometimes, a doctor removes a tiny piece of tissue from the part of your body that might be affected. This sample is viewed under a microscope for evidence of vasculitis.

More Information

Resource: Mayo Clinic – Vasculitis Diagnosis

Taking the Next Step in Your Health Journey

Early detection and accurate diagnosis are vital when managing rheumatic and autoimmune conditions. Finding the right answers quickly allows you to start an effective treatment plan, ease your daily symptoms, and protect your long-term joint health. If you are experiencing unexplained pain, chronic stiffness, or lasting fatigue, you do not have to navigate these challenges alone. We invite you to learn more about our comprehensive rheumatology services to see how our team can support your overall well-being. To get the professional care and personalized answers you deserve, please request an appointment with our specialists today.