HLA B-27, Flowcytometry
Understanding HLA B-27, Flowcytometry
What is HLA B-27, Flowcytometry?
An HLA B-27, Flowcytometry is a blood test that helps to identify the presence of Human Leukocyte Antigen B27(HLA B-27), a specific type of protein that is present on the surface of white blood cells (WBCs) that helps the body's immune system tell the difference between its own cells and foreign/harmful substances. This test can help diagnose autoimmune disorders associated with HLA B-27 antigen.
Human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) are proteins that help the body's immune system tell the difference between its own cells and foreign invaders. They are made from instructions by inherited genes. Individuals with the HLA B-27 gene are more likely to develop autoimmune diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis type II, lupus erythematosus, Crohn's disease, etc. Your doctor may suggest an HLA B-27, Flowcytometry test if you experience signs and symptoms such as stiffness and chronic pain in the back, neck, or chest, inflammation in eyes, urethra, and joints, the appearance of skin lesions, recurring fever, abdominal pain, or digestive problems indicative of an autoimmune disorder.
An HLA B-27, Flowcytometry test is also used during an organ transplant to match donated tissue with a person's tissue who is getting a transplant to minimize the risk of organ rejection and improve the success of the transplant.
HLA B-27 gene detection can be done by two methods - flow cytometry and Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). An HLA B-27, Flowcytometry test identifies the expression of the HLA B-27 gene on WBC surfaces whereas the PCR method directly identifies the HLA B-27 gene within the genetic material. Both these tests help diagnose autoimmune diseases but the choice between these methods often depends on the clinical context and the specific disease being investigated.
No special preparation is required for an HLA B-27, Flowcytometry test. Lab test results may vary across different laboratories. Abnormal test results require an expert interpretation, therefore, never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results, and always consult a doctor for proper understanding of the test results. Discuss your symptoms and medical history to help the doctor correlate your clinical and laboratory findings.
What is HLA B-27, Flowcytometry used for?
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To detect inflammatory conditions, especially those affecting the joints and spine
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In case of symptoms such as chronic joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the lower back, hips, neck, and chest suggestive of arthritis
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In case of uveitis (painful inflammation of eyes) particularly in males experiencing symptoms that begin in their early 30s
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In individuals who have a family history of autoimmune diseases associated with HLA-B27 gene
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In individuals who have to undergo an organ transplant procedure to assess the compatibility between the donor and the recipient
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To monitor the progression of disease in individuals with pre-existing autoimmune disorders
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In children, showing symptoms of juvenile arthritis associated with the HLA B-27 gene
What does HLA B-27, Flowcytometry measure?
An HLA B-27, Flowcytometry test evaluates the presence or absence of HLA B27 antigen to rule out the possibility of any autoimmune disorder. Once recognizing any cell as foreign and dangerous, the human leukocyte antigens (HLA) set out to destroy those cells to protect the body from any harm. The majority of the HLAs protect the body from damage, however, HLA-B27 is a specific type of protein that contributes to the dysfunction of the body’s immune system. The presence of HLA-B27 on the white blood cells can cause the immune system to attack those otherwise healthy cells. When this occurs, it can result in an autoimmune disease.
Interpreting HLA B-27, Flowcytometry 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*
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about HLA B-27, Flowcytometry
Frequently Asked Questions about HLA B-27, Flowcytometry
Q. When is an {test-name} test performed?
Q. Is there any risk associated with an HLA B-27, Flowcytometry test?
Q. What other tests can be performed alongside an HLA B-27, Flowcytometry test?
Q. What is reactive arthritis?
Q. What is ankylosing spondylitis and what are its possible complications?
Q. Does a positive HLA-B27 mean I have an autoimmune disorder?
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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 28 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 28 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 28 Nov. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3240147/
- Ankylosing Spondylitis. [Internet]. NIH; May. 2023. [Accessed 28 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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