False-negative

Definition

A false-negative result occurs when a test incorrectly indicates the absence of a condition or substance. This can lead to missed diagnoses and delayed treatments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A false-negative in antibody production tests means the test fails to detect antibodies that are actually present.
2. In nervous system infections, a false-negative can delay critical treatment for conditions like meningitis.
3. False-negatives can be caused by low levels of the target molecule, improper sample handling, or limitations in test sensitivity.
4. In acellular diseases of the nervous system, such as prion diseases, false-negatives complicate diagnosis due to the lack of cellular markers.
5. Quality control measures in laboratories aim to minimize the occurrence of false-negatives.

Review Questions

• What is a common cause for a false-negative result in an antibody production test?
• How can a false-negative impact the treatment of nervous system infections?
• What laboratory practices help reduce the likelihood of false-negatives?

Related terms

False-Positive:

A test result that incorrectly indicates the presence of a condition or substance.

Sensitivity: The ability of a test to correctly identify those with the condition (true positive rate).

Specificity:

The ability of a test to correctly identify those without the condition (true negative rate).