There are over 100 different forms of arthritis. Due to the variety and different ways in which the disease presents itself, there are conclusive tests to determine that an individual suffers from arthritis. Arthritic conditions can affect the joints, bones, soft tissue and organ systems depending upon which condition is present. When doctors piece together a diagnoses, they may use blood tests, imaging studies, a thorough history and a physical in order to determine an accurate diagnosis.
Arthritis does not usually exist in a vacuum. This means that patients often have more than one medical condition or disease process going on at the same time. Therefore, tests are used not only to identify the disease but to rule out other issues which may be causing the same symptoms. Sometimes doctors have to use a diagnosis of exclusion. This means the doctor will exclude everything else that the condition could be and will be left with the most probable diagnosis. (more…)