What is the HLA–B27 Test? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post, and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form down below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is an HLA–B27 test?
This test detects the presence of HLA – B27 proteins on the surface of white blood cells.
Also Read: Ankylosing Spondylitis
What is HLA–B27?
It stands for Human Leucocyte Antigen B27. It is a protein present on the surface of WBCs and is involved in the immune response to foreign substances in the body. It helps in differentiating the body’s cells from foreign substances.
What is an HLA–B27 test used for?
Individuals with HLA-B27 in the blood are more prone to develop autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, ankylosing spondylitis, autoimmune hepatitis, or Crohn’s disease.
It is not a diagnostic or confirmatory test but a prognostic factor. It should always be done with other blood, urine, or imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis of an autoimmune disorder.
It helps in establishing the course and progression of the disease.
When should I get it done?
If you’re having any of the following symptoms, your healthcare provider will order this test for you:
- Joint pains
- Stiffness around neck, back, shoulders
- Inflammation of joints
- Inflammation of urethra
- Recurrent inflammation of the eyes
What is the normal range of HLA–B27 in the blood?
The HLA-B27 test is represented as positive or negative. The normal range is considered the negative one i.e., the absence of HLA-B27 antigen in the body.
Is positive HLA-B27 a dangerous thing?
A positive HLA-B27 is not a dangerous thing. It indicates the presence of HLA-B27 antigen in the blood and is associated with an increased tendency to have certain autoimmune disorders like juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, ankylosing spondylitis, autoimmune hepatitis, ulcerative colitis, or Crohn’s disease.
It is a hallmark of the genetic component of spondyloarthritides and is found in almost 99% of patients.
Is negative HLA-B27 a good thing?
HLA-B27 is related to an increased risk of developing autoimmune disorders. However, a negative HLA-B27 doesn’t always mean you’re free of an autoimmune disorder. If you’re presenting with any inflammatory symptoms, you should consult your healthcare provider for further investigations of the condition.
Also Read: CRP
For more information, you can visit Testing.com and Healthline.
