HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR
Understanding HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR
What is HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR?
An HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR test detects the presence of the HLA B27 gene in the blood. HLA B27 is 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.
Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLAs) genes play a crucial role in the immune system, and the HLA B27 variant is associated with certain autoimmune conditions, especially a group of joint-related conditions known as seronegative spondyloarthropathies. These include ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
This test uses a method called PCR (polymerase chain reaction), which is more accurate and sensitive than other methods like flow cytometry. It helps doctors detect the HLA-B27 gene, assess the risk, and monitor the condition if symptoms are already present.
The doctor may suggest an HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR test if there are signs and symptoms such as chronic back pain, joint pain, stiffness, or inflammation in the eyes, urethra, and joints, or have a family history of autoimmune conditions. The HLA B27 test is also used to match donated tissue to the tissue of the organ transplant recipient.
Usually, no special preparation is needed for this test. Eat and drink as per the daily routine. Also, inform the doctor about any medications being taken, as some medications may influence the test results if taken before this test.
Test result ranges may vary slightly across laboratories. Talk to your doctor to understand what the result means. Based on the findings, they may recommend lifestyle changes or medications to manage your health.
What is HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR used for?
An HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR test is done:
- When a person has symptoms of arthritis like ongoing joint pain, stiffness, or swelling, especially in the lower back, hips, neck, or chest, or has eye problems like uveitis (painful eye inflammation).
- If someone has a family history of autoimmune diseases.
- Before getting an organ transplant.
- To check the progress of an autoimmune condition and see how well the treatment is working.
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 the HLA B27 antigen to rule out the possibility of an autoimmune disorder. This gene is found on the surface of certain white blood cells and may increase the risk of developing conditions like ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis.
A positive result means the gene is present, and there may be a higher risk of these conditions. A negative result means the gene is not found. However, it is important to know that not having the HLA B27 gene does not fully rule out autoimmune disorders, as some people without the gene can still develop them.
Interpreting HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR results
Interpretations
|
RESULT |
REMARKS |
|
Negative |
No expression of HLA B-27 |
|
Indeterminate |
Grey zone (within 10 channels of cutoff) |
|
Positive |
Expression of HLA B-27 detected |
Anti-HLA-B27 antibody cross-reacts with several other antigens of the HLA-B group, specially HLA-B7, leading to false-positive results*
Frequently Asked Questions about HLA B27 (Human Leukocyte Antigen B27) - PCR
Q. Why is the HLA B27 - PCR test done?
Q. Is the HLA B27 test safe?
Q. What diseases are linked with positive HLA B27 test results?
Q. What is reactive arthritis?
Q. What is ankylosing spondylitis?
Q. Can a person test positive for HLA B27 without having any disease?
Q. Can HLA B27 be cured?
Q. How can I lower HLA B27 levels?
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References
- Parameswaran P, Lucke M. HLA-B27 Syndromes. [Updated 2023 Jul 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551523/
- Zochling J, Bohl-Bühler MH, Baraliakos X, Feldtkeller E, Braun J. Infection and work stress are potential triggers of ankylosing spondylitis. Clin Rheumatol. 2006 Sep;25(5):660-6.[Accessed 06 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16633712/
- HLA- B27 Antigen [Internet]. Rochester, NY: University of Rochester Medical Center; [Accessed 06 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=167&ContentID=hla_b27_antigen
- N P, Shanmugam SG, Devi SS, Chinambedu Dandapani MP, S R, D'Cruze L. Detection of Human Leukocyte Antigen B27 by Flowcytometry in Patients With Suspected Ankylosing Spondylitis in a Tertiary Care Centre. Cureus. 2021 Feb 25;13(2):e13560. [Accessed 06 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8004549/#:~:text=HLA%2DB27%20testing%20is%20routinely%20used%20to%20diagnose%20AS%20since,%2Dpositive%20cases%20%5B12%5D.
- McMichael A, Bowness P. HLA-B27: natural function and pathogenic role in spondyloarthritis. Arthritis Res. 2002;4 Suppl 3(Suppl 3):S153-8. [Accessed 06 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3240147/
- Ankylosing Spondylitis. [Internet]. NIH; May. 2023. [Accessed 06 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/ankylosing-spondylitis#:~:text=Ankylosing%20spondylitis%20is%20a%20type,help%20us%20move%20and%20bend.
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