Seronegative arthritis

SERONEGATIVE INFLAMMATORY ARTHRITIS


If a specific protein is found in your blood you may be diagnosed with this type of arthritis

Enquiries & Appointments

About

Arthritis can be divided into two types: seropositive and seronegative. These refer to the presence of two proteins in your blood. Your type is determined by a blood test. One protein is called rheumatoid factor (RF) and the other is anti-CCP. Anti-CCP is more sensitive and may appear earlier. Seronegative arthritis affects a minority of cases.

Need to know

Symptoms may include:

  • painful and swollen joints
  • stiffness
  • tiredness

Your consultant will speak to you about your symptoms, discuss your medical history and perform a physical examination of your affected joints. To confirm a diagnosis they may ask you to carry out some, or all, of the following tests:

  • a blood test to check for two proteins (RF and anti-CCP)
  • X-ray, CT or MRI scans of the affected joints

Treatment options include:

  • over-the-counter painkillers and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
  • steroids
  • biologics (used for severe cases)

In severe cases, surgery may be recommended. Possible procedures include hip, knee and ankle replacements.

Our Seronegative arthritis locations

The Harley Street Clinic

The Harley Street Clinic

35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
The Princess Grace Hospital

The Princess Grace Hospital

42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London
The Lister Hospital

The Lister Hospital

Chelsea Bridge Road, SW1W 8RH London
The Shard Outpatients

The Shard Outpatients

The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
London Lupus and Rheumatology Centre

London Lupus and Rheumatology Centre

1st Floor, St. Olaf House SE1 2PR London
London Bridge Hospital

London Bridge Hospital

27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London

Patient stories

This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.