HLA-B*27 is a genetic risk factor for seronegative spondyloarthropathies, such as ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis and anterior uveitis. ViennaLab HLA-B27 assays detect the majority of currently known HLA-B*27 variants except some rare alleles.
HLA-B27
- Ankylosing spondylitis (AS), also known as Bechterew´s disease is the most prevalent spondyloarthropathy. Symptoms at the onset of the disease are usually nonspecific, posing difficulties for a firm diagnosis.
- HLA-B molecules play an important role in immunity. Studies showed a high correlation of HLA-B*27 alleles and AS patients. Differentiating between HLA-B*27 positive and negative patients is therefore an important parameter for diagnosing spondyloarthropathies.
- Early and adequate treatment ameliorates the course of the disease.