Immunopathology mnemonic

HLA-B27 associated seronegative spondyloarthropathies

The mnemonic

PAIR

What each word stands for

  • PPsoriatic arthritis
  • AAnkylosing spondylitis
  • IInflammatory bowel disease arthritis
  • RReactive arthritis

Why it matters clinically

Groups the HLA-B27 associated spondyloarthropathies that are rheumatoid factor negative.

Where it stops being reliable

HLA-B27 is supportive, not diagnostic, and not every patient with these conditions carries it.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Immunopathology mnemonic?

PAIR. It helps you recall: HLA-B27 associated seronegative spondyloarthropathies.

What does "P" stand for?

Psoriatic arthritis

What does "A" stand for?

Ankylosing spondylitis

What does "I" stand for?

Inflammatory bowel disease arthritis

What are all the parts of the PAIR mnemonic?

P: Psoriatic arthritis; A: Ankylosing spondylitis; I: Inflammatory bowel disease arthritis; R: Reactive arthritis.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Immunopathology in Pathology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

HLA-B27 is supportive, not diagnostic, and not every patient with these conditions carries it.

How is this useful clinically?

Groups the HLA-B27 associated spondyloarthropathies that are rheumatoid factor negative.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Pathology question about Immunopathology.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.