Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a type of chronic inflammatory condition affecting joints and is often accompanied by the skin condition psoriasis. Diagnosing PsA can be challenging due to overlapping symptoms with other arthritic conditions.
A Complete Blood Count (CBC) test is crucial in the diagnostic workup, offering valuable insights into potential inflammation and overall blood health. This article delves into the intricacies of PsA, the CBC test in this context, and its implications for diagnosis and management.
At Kayakalp Global, our specialists prioritize analyzing the root cause of the disease before prescribing a thorough treatment plan. Hence, comprehensive testing, including the CBC test, is a key market in confirming the diagnosis of Psoriatic Arthritis.
Understanding Psoriatic Arthritis
Unlike the other types, psoriatic arthritis affects roughly 1% of the world population and is characterized by the onset of joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and inflammation.
It can manifest with a variety of symptoms, while some patients complain of experiencing mild symptoms in a few joints others endure severe pain and joint deformity. Although the cause of PsA remains unknown, it is, like the other types of psoriasis, an autoimmune disorder usually triggered by genetic or environmental factors.
Psoriasis, a chronic skin condition with symptoms like red, and scaly patches, often precedes or coincides with PsA. However, not everyone with psoriasis develops PsA, and vice versa.
Some of the symptoms of the condition include:
- Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling
- Tenderness and redness around affected joints
- Difficulty performing daily activities due to joint pain
- Morning stiffness lasting for more than 30 minutes
- Psoriasis plaques on the skin (scaly, red patches)
- Pitting or discoloration of nails
- Fatigue
Inflammation is a key player in PsA. The body’s immune system ends up wrongly attacking the healthy tissues in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. This chronic inflammation can also affect other body parts, such as the eyes, nails, heart, and lungs.
The CBC Test for Psoriatic Arthritis
A CBC test is a routine blood test that measures various components of your blood. Since psoriatic arthritis is usually marked by inflammation and other bodily complications, getting a complete blood count evaluation is vital in analyzing the complications more closely.
Following are some of the components of a CBC test for PsA:
Red blood cells (RBCs):
These cells carry oxygen throughout the body. A low RBC count (anemia) can indicate inflammation or other underlying conditions.
White blood cells (WBCs):
These cells make up an integral part of your immune system and fight infection. Elevated WBC count can indicate inflammation in the body.
Hemoglobin:
This protein in RBCs carries oxygen. Low hemoglobin levels can contribute to fatigue, a common symptom in PsA.
Hematocrit:
This accounts for the percentage of red blood cells in your blood. Abnormalities in hematocrit can suggest anemia or other blood disorders.
Platelets:
These cells help with blood clotting. Abnormalities in platelet count can increase bleeding risk.
Normal Ranges for CBC Components
Knowing the normal range of the individual CBC components is key to ensuring an accurate diagnosis. This enables you and the doctor to narrow down the complications and align a treatment plan best suited to your individual needs.
Red Blood Cells (RBCs): Men: 4.2-5.4 million/uL; Women: 4.2-5.2 million/uL.
Hemoglobin: Men: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Women: 12-15.5 g/dL.
Hematocrit: Men: 41-53%; Women: 36-46%.
White Blood Cells (WBCs): 4,500-11,000/uL.
Platelets: 150,000-450,000/uL.
These five make up the main components of the CBC test and have multiple additional factors under their primary categories. For example, your WBC count will show a variety of lymphocytes, neutrophils, etc.
The CBC Test and PsA Diagnosis
Before we highlight the significance of the CBC test in PsA diagnosis, please keep in mind that this test is not a standalone diagnostic marker. At Kayakalp Global, we prescribe a series of tests, both blood and imaging, to understand the underlying complications and then confirm the diagnosis.
Although a CBC test alone can’t diagnose PsA, it can provide an insightful understanding of your overall health and the presence of inflammation:
Elevated WBC count:
A high WBC count can indicate inflammation in the body, potentially related to PsA or another condition.
Anaemia:
Low RBC count or hemoglobin levels can occur in PsA due to chronic inflammation or other factors.
Other abnormalities:
Abnormalities in platelet count or other CBC components might necessitate further investigation.
Depending on the reports, our Kayakalp Global specialists may perform a comprehensive analysis or prescribe further testing to determine the root cause of the problem.
Note: Even with a normal CBC, you might still have PsA. Inflammation markers in PsA can be subtle, and other tests might be needed for diagnosis. Up to 60% of people with PsA may have normal CBC results, particularly in the early stages, so there are certain limitations to the accuracy of the test for a comprehensive diagnosis.
Procedure for a CBC Test
A CBC test is a blood test in which the phlebotomist draws blood from a vein in your arm and sends it to the laboratory to analyze each component in your blood.
The process is usually quick and painless, with minimal to no complications. The expertise of the person drawing the blood also influences whether or not you will experience pain and discomfort.
Cost of CBC Test
The CBC test is a fairly common blood test and is quite affordable. On average, the cost of the test starts from INR 300.
However, keep in mind that your location, the laboratory you are getting the test from, insurance coverage, and other factors will influence the cost of the test.
Additional Blood Tests for PsA
Besides CBC tests, a few of the other tests that we prescribe our patients get done for a more thorough diagnosis at Kayakalp Global include:
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR):
These tests measure inflammation in the body. Elevated levels can indicate PsA activity.
Rheumatoid Factor (RF):
This test helps differentiate PsA from rheumatoid arthritis, as RF is usually positive in rheumatoid arthritis but negative in PsA.
HLA-B27 Test:
This test looks for a specific genetic marker associated with PsA, although not everyone with PsA tests positive for HLA-B27.
Based on all these reports, potential physical complications, symptoms, medical history, etc., our specialists will work together with you to confirm a diagnosis and then curate a personalized treatment plan that addresses all your concerns.
Psoriatic Arthritis Test & Frequency
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test | Frequency |
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test: X-Ray | Annually |
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test: MRI | Every 2 Years |
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test: Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate | Quarterly |
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test: C-Reactive Protein | Quarterly |
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test: Rheumatoid Factor | Annually |
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test: Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Test | Annually |
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test: HLA-B27 | Once (if indicated) |
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test: Complete Blood Count (CBC) | Every 6 Months |
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test: Tuberculosis Test | Annually (if on immunosuppressants) |
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test: Chest X-Ray | Annually |
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test: Serum Uric Acid | Annually |
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test: Bone Mineral Density | Every 2 Years |
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test: Anemia | Every 6 Months |
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test: Thyroid Function Tests | Annually |
| Psoriatic Arthritis Test: Skin Biopsy | As needed (if skin symptoms change) |
Caution Note: The frequency of these tests can vary based on individual patient conditions and physician recommendations. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to determine the appropriate testing schedule.
Take Charge of Your Health Today!
The CBC test plays a supporting role in the diagnosis of PsA. While an abnormal CBC can suggest inflammation, it’s not definitive for PsA diagnosis. However, a CBC can be a valuable tool when interpreted alongside other tests, symptoms, and physical examinations.
Kayakalp Global prioritizes root cause analysis instead of symptom management. So, if you are experiencing complications and need a more in-depth understanding of what’s wrong, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our specialists.
Give us a call or drop a message at +91-9599794433.
