Seronegative arthritis. Issue 12 (December 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kadwani, Hina; Mahmud, Mohammad
• Is Part Of: InnovAiT. Volume 7:Issue 12(2014:Dec.)
• Page Start: 730
• Page End: 737
• Publication Date: 2014-12
• Subjects: Family medicine -- Periodicals; Physicians (General practice) -- Training of -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1177/1755738014556005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1755-7380

Abstract

The inflammatory arthritides are often divided into those that are 'seropositive' and those that are 'seronegative'. The former test positive with blood tests that look for two proteins: rheumatoid factor; and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody. However, although seropositivity is part of the diagnostic criteria for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), seronegativity does not exclude the diagnosis, but rather suggests a more benign disease. The term 'seronegative arthritis' has evolved from a term used to describe variants of RA, to the present understanding of a spectrum of 'seronegative spondyloarthritides' (defined as inflammation within the axial skeleton and vertebral column). These are a closely linked group of conditions with common serological, genetic, clinical and radiological features. These include: ankylosing spondylitis; juvenile ankylosing spondylitis; psoriatic arthritis; reactive arthritis; enteropathic arthritis; undifferentiated spondyloarthritis; and seronegative enthesopathic arthritis syndrome. This article will outline the diagnosis and management of seronegative arthritis.