Understanding Elevated CH50 and Rheumatoid Factor: Causes & Implications

Question
I am wondering, in what instances can ch50 complement and rheumatoid factor
be elevated?  My levels were 178 (normal 61-120) and 22 (normal 0-19)
respectively.  My doctor is trying to figure out why I have swelling in my distal
finger joints and a lump on my wrist.

Answer
a lot of the rheumatologic tests are vague.... they point in the right direction but this specialty has a lot of false negatives and false positive blood tests.  All your tests, your history, and your physical exam need to be taken in context with each other.  If your primary doctor is comfortable doing this, you are done.  If not, have them send you to a rheumatologist.