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Seropositive vs. seronegative, what is seroconversion?

A) Positive reaction, Negative reaction, Immune response
B) Negative reaction, Positive reaction, Antibody production
C) Immune response, Antibody production, Positive reaction
D) Antibody production, Immune response, Negative reaction

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Seropositive means antibodies are detected (positive reaction), seronegative means they are not (negative reaction), while seroconversion is the process of developing detectable antibodies (antibody production).

Step-by-step explanation:

The terms seropositive and seronegative relate to the detection of antibodies in the blood serum in response to an infection or other antigens. Being seropositive means that antibodies are present, indicating a positive reaction to the antigen. Conversely, seronegative indicates a negative reaction, where antibodies against a particular antigen are not detected. Seroconversion refers to the process during which a seronegative individual develops detectable levels of antibodies, thus becoming seropositive; this can occur as part of the immune response after an infection or vaccination. Generally, seroconversion coincides with the onset of symptoms in a disease, but durations for seroconversion can vary depending on the pathogen, such as taking roughly 3 weeks or longer in HIV infection. Hence, the correct answer to the student's question would be: B) Negative reaction, Positive reaction, Antibody production.

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