1st order laboratory parameters – obligatory laboratory tests.
- ESR* (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) [“fall sedimentation rate”; mean values around 90 mm after one hour; normal sedimentation rate only in 1-2% of patients].
- CRP* (C-reactive protein) [CRP is more sensitive than ESR; mean values of 90 mg/dL]
- Small blood count [normochromic normocytic anemia (anemia); leukocytosis (white blood cell proliferation) and/or thrombocytosis (platelet proliferation)]
- Autoantibodies against ferritin (iron stores) – occurring in 90% of patients with untreated RZA; however, not proving, as this also occurs in other inflammatory rheumatic diseases.
* Ca. 95% of cases are associated with increased serological inflammatory activity. In the context of differential diagnostic clarification of the elevated ESR should be promptly a finding- and symptom-oriented malignancy screening.
