Seronegative Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is classed as an autoimmune system disorder and is similar to rheumatoid arthritis. Although seronegative RA shares the same symptoms as rheumatoid arthritis, the difference is that the rheumatoid factor is absent. The rheumatoid factor (RhF) is an antibody that is significant in rheumatoid arthritis and which can be used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis by use of blood tests. Because blood tests for seronegative RA are negative, diagnosing the condition can be difficult.

Symptoms
As mentioned, the symptoms for seronegative rheumatoid arthritis tend to be very similar to those associated with rheumatoid arthritis, such as joint inflammation and swelling, fever, and redness to the skin around the affected area. Flu like symptoms may also be experienced, such as stiffness of the body, extreme tiredness and weakness. Over time, limited motion of the affected joints is often experienced. Seronegative RA is generally more common in men, and can develop after contracting other conditions such as Crohn’s disease, gout and psoriasis.

Several types of arthritis fall into the seronegative category, such as psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Enteropathic arthritis and Reactive arthritis (Reiter’s syndrome).

Diagnosis
It is likely that a blood test will be carried out initially to determine the presence of RhF which would indicate rheumatoid arthritis. If there is an absence of RhF then there is a range of tests that can be done to detect the presence of Seronegative rheumatoid arthritis, including X-rays and blood count tests.

Monitoring the progression of the condition can be difficult as the RhF factor present in rheumatoid arthritis indicates the severity of the disease and how far it has progressed. As the RhF is absent in seronegative rheumatoid arthritis, the condition cannot be monitored in this way. Some patients find that keeping a diary of symptoms and flare ups can be beneficial as this can help their doctor calculate the severity and progression of the disease.

Treatment
Treatment of seronegative RA is similar to that of rheumatoid arthritis, in that it is focused on relieving inflammation and pain and slowing down the progression of the disease. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are likely to be prescribed, as are disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

As this is an autoimmune condition, there is a lot you can do to boost your body’s immunity to help it to combat the condition. Eating a diet rich in leafy green vegetables, beneficial fats such as those found in avocados and fish, berries, walnuts and whole grains have helped some sufferers to relieve their symptoms. Processed foods, sugar, caffeine and alcohol should be kept to a minimum.

Gentle, low impact exercise such as walking and swimming can help maintain joint flexibility and mobility.

One positive way the condition differs from rheumatoid arthritis is that patients with seronegative RA generally experience less joint deterioration and destruction. Although seronegative RA, like rheumatoid arthritis, cannot currently be cured, symptoms can be managed effectively so that impaction on every day life can be minimal.

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