False-negative test result

False-negative test result is a term used in medical testing to describe a situation where a test fails to detect the condition it is designed to identify. This can occur for a variety of reasons, including issues with the test itself, the timing of the test, or the individual's unique physiology.

Definition

A false-negative test result occurs when a diagnostic test indicates that a person does not have a disease or condition when the person actually does have it. This is in contrast to a false-positive test result, which indicates that a person has a disease or condition when the person actually does not have it.

Causes

There are several reasons why a false-negative test result might occur. These include:

• Test sensitivity: If a test is not sensitive enough, it may not detect the disease or condition in its early stages.
• Timing of the test: If a test is done too early or too late, it may not accurately detect the disease or condition.
• Individual physiology: Some individuals may not produce the antibodies or other markers that a test is designed to detect.

Implications

False-negative test results can have serious implications. They can lead to delays in treatment, which can in turn lead to worse health outcomes. They can also lead to a false sense of security, as individuals may believe they are disease-free when they are not.

Prevention

To prevent false-negative test results, it is important to use highly sensitive tests and to perform them at the appropriate time. It is also important to consider individual physiology when interpreting test results.

See also

• False-positive test result
• Sensitivity (tests)
• Specificity (tests)

False-negative test result Resources
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