HLA-B27 Overview
Human leukocyte antigens (HLA) are cell surface proteins that play a fundamental role in distinguishing between endogenous and foreign structures in the body. One of these cell surface antigens is HLA-B27, which can be found on virtually all body cells. The association between HLA-B27 and ankylosing spondylitis has been known for over 30 years. Over 90% of all patients with ankylosing spondylitis carry the HLA-B27 gene which however is only present in 8% of the “healthy” population. Thus the molecular genetic detection of HLA-B27 has a very high diagnostic significance for the probability of developing this disease.
Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic rheumatic disease which mainly affects the spine. The early symptomatology of the disease leads to movement limitations of the lumbar spine. Further on in the course of the disease, the symptoms may worsen to the point of hardening of the bones of the spine.
The first signs of the disease are frequently unspecific and are generally not associated with the disease. There is generally a time period of 5-10 years between the initial symptoms and a definite diagnosis. However, an early diagnosis is of crucial importance, since the course of the disease can positively be influenced when the disease is diagnosed early on.
Based on the high diagnostic significance, it is recommended that all patients with inflammatory back pain undergo an HLA-B27 determination. Along with the clarification of additional parameters, for example, the presence of a positive family history, the test result makes a definite diagnosis possible.
The choice is yours: Two technologies and test systems for your individual result
The test system GenoQuick® HLA-B27 is based on the well-known GenoQuick® technology, whereas FluoroType® HLA-B27 is based on the innovative FluoroType® technology. Both test system can be used for a fast and reliable detection of the HLA-B27 gene and play therefore an important role in the diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis