Relationship between HLA-B27 and Ankylosing Spondylitis
Jun 06, 2019
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Chunyan
Introduction
Ankylosing spondylitis exhibits a very strong association with the HLA-B27 antigen; therefore, HLA-B27 testing holds significant importance in the diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis. Approximately 5%–20% of patients with spondyloarthropathy test negative for HLA-B27.
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) exhibits a very strong association with the HLA-B27 antigen; therefore, HLA-B27 testing holds significant importance in the diagnosis of AS.
Approximately 5%–20% of patients with spondyloarthropathy test negative for HLA-B27.
Thus, in addition to HLA-B27 testing, patients should undergo further diagnostic evaluations—including erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)—to confirm diagnosis and assess the extent of joint damage, thereby guiding subsequent targeted treatment.
HLA-B27 comprises multiple subtypes, some of which are positively associated with disease, while others show a negative association.
