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HLA - B27, PCR

Overview
What is HLA - B27, PCR?
HLA B-27 refers to Human leukocyte antigen B-27. HLA B-27, PCR test is done to determine the presence of HLA B-27 in the blood. Along with that, it helps to assess the presence of any autoimmune disorder associated with HLA B-27.
Why is HLA - B27, PCR done?
The HLA B-27, PCR test is done:
In case of symptoms of arthritis such as chronic joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the lower back, hips, neck, and chest
In case of Uveitis (painful inflammation of eyes) especially in males where the symptoms started at the age of early 30s.
What does HLA - B27, PCR Measure?
HLA B-27 test determines the presence or absence of human leukocyte antigen which is present on the surface of white blood cells. The HLA B-27 also refers to the gene which codes for the HLA B-27 protein.
HLA B-27 are proteins that help the immune system to differentiate the body’s own cells from other foreign cells. Every person has an inherited combination of HLA genes which codes for many antigens that are present on the surfaces of their cells. This HLA combination is distinctive for each person and is based on the presence or absence of each antigen.
People with HLA B-27 have increased chances of developing autoimmune diseases like ankylosing spondylitis, rheumatoid arthritis, reactive arthritis, and isolated acute anterior uveitis. HLA B-27 is also said to be linked with inflammatory bowel disease and other chronic conditions.
Interpreting HLA - 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 HLA-B group specially HLA-B7 leading to false-positive results*