HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR in New Delhi

Also known as Human leukocyte A antigen, Histocompatibility leukocyte A antigen

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required.

Understanding HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR in New Delhi

What is HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR in New Delhi?

An HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR test uses the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique to detect the presence of the HLA B27 gene, a specific type of protein, on the surface of white blood cells. This gene is mainly associated with autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, such as ankylosing spondylitis.

What does HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR measure?

An HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR test is used to determine the presence or absence of HLA B27 antigen to rule out the possibility of an autoimmune disorder. The presence of HLA-B27 protein on the surface of white blood cells is often associated with autoimmune disorders. A positive result is associated with an increased risk of developing certain autoimmune conditions, particularly ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. A negative result suggests the absence of the HLA-B27 gene variant. However, it does not rule out the possibility of developing an autoimmune disorder, as not all affected individuals carry the HLA-B27 gene.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR in New Delhi

Frequently Asked Questions about HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR in New Delhi

Q. How is the blood sample taken?

The healthcare provider takes a blood sample from the arm. The site from where the blood is to be withdrawn is cleaned with a swab of rubbing alcohol. This is then followed by inserting a small needle which has a tube attached to it for collecting blood. Once the sufficient blood for analysis is withdrawn, the needle is removed. The site is then covered with a gauze pad.

Q. Is there any risk associated with the withdrawal of blood sample procedure?

The HLA B27 test is a safe procedure. However, there are some common risks involved when having blood drawn from the arm, such as mild pain, bruising, or bleeding at the injection site. Most of these symptoms go away in a day or two. Serious complications are rare.

Q. What is Reactive Arthritis?

Reactive arthritis is a painful form of inflammatory arthritis. This includes joint disease caused due to inflammation. It develops due to inflammation caused in response to infection which is caused by certain bacteria which are present in genitals (Chlamydia trachomatis) or the bowel (Campylobacter, Shigella, Salmonella, and Yersinia).

Q. What is ankylosing spondylitis?

Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis that primarily affects the spine but can also affect other joints. It comprises spinal joint inflammation, which can further cause severe, chronic pain and discomfort. If the inflammation is left undiagnosed, it can lead to new bone formation in the spine, known as ankylosis. In ankylosis, sections of the spine fuse in a fixed and immobile position. In this, one can develop inflammation, pain, and stiffness in other body parts, such as hips, ribs, shoulders, heels, and small joints of hands and feet. The inflammation can also involve eyes, known as uveitis or iritis. However, in rare cases, the heart and lungs can be affected.

Q. Why is the {test-name} test done?

The HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR test is done if you have symptoms like pain and inflammation associated with spine, neck, and chest stiffness. This test helps determine whether you have human leukocyte antigen B27 (HLA B27) on the surface of your cells, and this, in turn, helps assess the possibility that you may be suffering from an autoimmune disorder.

Q. What other tests might be performed alongside the HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR?

Depending on your symptoms and medical history, other tests may be conducted, such as rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), or C-reactive protein (CRP) test.

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