seronegativas

Seronegativas is a term used in medicine to describe individuals who do not have detectable antibodies to a specific antigen or pathogen in serological testing. The word derives from serology, the study of blood serum and immune markers, and negation, indicating a negative test result for the targeted antibodies.

In autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, seronegative refers to conditions where common autoantibodies are absent. For example, seronegative spondyloarthropathies include diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis, and arthritis associated with inflammatory bowel disease. These conditions typically test negative for rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies, yet they may display characteristic clinical features, imaging findings, and genetic associations (such as HLA-B27). Diagnosis often relies on clinical criteria, radiographic evidence, and alternative biomarkers rather than these classic autoantibodies.

In infectious disease testing, seronegative status indicates negative antibody tests for a given pathogen, which can occur during the early window after exposure before antibody production begins. For example, in HIV infection, antibody tests may be negative during acute infection, and additional methods such as nucleic acid tests (RNA) are used for early detection. Seronegativity can also occur due to immune suppression, assay limitations, or the absence of a measurable antibody response.

Laboratory and clinical implications include the recognition that a negative serology does not always rule out disease. When suspicion remains high, clinicians may employ repeat testing, use different assays, or apply alternative diagnostic approaches (imaging, molecular tests, or cellular markers). Understanding seronegativity helps in interpreting discordant results and guiding appropriate follow-up. Related terms include serology, seropositivity, seroconversion, and autoantibodies.