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HLA B27 Test

Dr. Abhistita MudunuriLast Updated on 11th February 2022

The blood test is conducted to look for proteins found on the surface of the white blood cells. The protein that is looked up for is Human leukocyte antigen b27. The human leukocyte antigen helps in determining the difference between the body cell and the foreign substance that may enter the body. With the HLA B27, you are prone to get autoimmune diseases, and your body will not be able to identify between its own cells or foreign objects. A few common autoimmune diseases connected to this disorder are ankylosing spondylitis, juvenile arthritis, and reactive arthritis.

What is the HLA B27 test used for?What is included in the HLA B27 Test?Procedure for HLA B27 test How to prepare for HLA B27?Things to consider after the HLA B27 test is complete How much does the HLA B27 test cost?What do abnormal HLA B27 test results indicate?Is the HLA B27 test a definite test?Why book the HLA B27 test?What can affect the results for HLA B27?Frequently asked questions

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What is the HLA B27 test used for?

The test is used for patients who are suffering from autoimmune diseases. Your doctor may order you to undergo this test if he anticipates that you have ankylosing spondylitis or arthritis, which indicates you have the disorder of HLA B27. With the help of this test, the healthcare provider determines if the protein is present on the surface of white blood cells, which helps identify the body’s cells against the foreign substance. Once the cause of your problem is known, the doctor will be able to plan out treatment to relieve your symptoms.

What is included in the HLA B27 Test?

The HLA B27 test is a fairly simple and widely used technique for the diagnosis of autoimmune disorders. When you use the MFine app to schedule your tests, a lab professional will visit your home. Using the Mfine app to schedule a HLA B27 test saves the time and trouble of going to a medical lab and waiting for the process to begin. You can set a time for our lab technician to visit your home and collect the sample within your busy schedule. Everything about the HLA B27 test is covered, from collecting the sample to delivering the results.

Procedure for HLA B27 test

The HLA B27 test is conducted in a way similar to any other blood test. It does not require any additional preparation before the testing.

A trained technician will draw a small amount of blood by inserting the needle into the vein.
The collected blood sample will be transferred to a small vial or test tube. The sample will then be sent to a lab for further processing.
While inserting a needle into the vein, slight pain may be experienced in the arm. However, the pain will reduce immediately. Some individuals may also experience redness and swelling at the needle insertion site.
The procedure usually lasts for about 5-10 minutes.

Any drugs taken should always be disclosed during the consultation with the physician. In addition, if there is an additional necessity, the doctor will advise you beforehand.

Book a HLA B27 to check your human leukocyte antigen b27 level!

How to prepare for HLA B27?

Since this is a blood test, no specific preparations are required. Based on the symptoms and health condition your treating doctor will advise this test. Once the results are ready, the doctor then plans the treatment after considering the test results. You would be required to follow through with the doctor’s guidelines when he asks you about your medical history and the medications you have been taking.

Things to consider after the HLA B27 test is complete

The following things need to be considered once the HLA B27 test is complete:

Wear a bandage or apply pressure on the injection site with cotton for a specified period (unless you experience skin irritation at the puncture site).
Avoid any strenuous activities and exercises that may cause bleeding.
If you feel stiffness or bruising at the puncture site, dab an ice pack wrapped in a towel on your arm.

If you experience any worrisome symptoms, call and consult the doctor or contact the support team.

What types of infection can the HLA B27 test detect?

The HLA-B27 test is used to help confirm or establish a suspected diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis (AS), juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA), reactive arthritis, or anterior uveitis. In the vast majority of instances, the reason is unknown. However, in certain cases of reactive arthritis, there is a link between the development of the disease and prior infection with a microorganism such as Campylobacter, Chlamydia, Salmonella, and Yersinia. Similarities between the HLA-B27 antigen and antigens present on the surface of bacteria are said to cause the immune system to fight both the germ and the person’s own tissues, resulting in the autoimmune condition after the infection has resolved.

How much does the HLA B27 test cost?

HLA B27test is a potent test to figure out the proteins present on the surface of white blood cells. This helps the doctor understand the patient’s immune system so that he can devise a treatment plan that is suitable for him. The HLA B27 costs around 1000 to 1500 rupees, depending on the clinic.

Disclaimer: The value varies based on location, time, and your preferred lab partner.

How long does it take to get the results?

You can expect to get the results within 24 to 48 hours after the sample is collected. However, in some instances, depending on the location, medical advice, and preferred lab partner, it may take longer.

What do abnormal HLA B27 test results indicate?

This is a blood test done to see the protein present on the surface of the white blood cells. This protein is mandatory as it helps the body understand the difference between one’s own cell as well as the foreign substances. When the body is unable to determine this difference it so happens that it attacks its own cells, leading to autoimmune disorders like arthritis and spondylitis.

Disclaimer: Please consult with your doctor for interpreting the test reports.

Is the HLA B27 test a definite test?

The test is effective in determining the presence of protein on the surface of the white blood cells. The doctor will be able to understand if the patient is undergoing any autoimmune disorders leading to his present problems. Following the guidelines of the doctor will further help in treating you.

How to read the HLA B27 test report?

The findings of the test may differ based on your age, biological sex, medical history, the method utilised for testing, and other factors. Your test results might not indicate that you have a problem. Inquire with your doctor about what your test findings signify for you.

A negative test result indicates that you do not have Hla- B 27 in your blood. A positive result indicates that HLA B27 was detected in your blood. Certain autoimmune disorders, such as ankylosing spondylitis and reactive arthritis, may be more common in you. If you require a tissue or organ transplant and the HLA antigens don’t match those of the donor, your body may reject the graft.

Book a HLA B27 test to check your HLA B27 level!

Why book the HLA B27 test?

Your doctor may recommend this test to further identify the cause of joint pain, stiffness, or swelling. If your doctor suspects you have ankylosing spondylitis or another autoimmune disease, he may ask you to take his test. Ankylosing spondylitis can cause back, neck, and chest discomfort and stiffness. This category of arthritis includes the following conditions:

Ankylosing spondylitis
Arthritis related to Crohn disease or ulcerative colitis
Psoriatic arthritis (arthritis associated with psoriasis)
Reactive arthritis
Sacroiliitis (inflammation of the sacroiliac joint)
Uveitis

A HLA antigen test might also be needed if you are having an organ or tissue transplant. This might be a kidney transplant or bone marrow transplant. The donor’s HLA antigens must match yours for the transplant to be successful.

HLA B27 test at home – how does it work?

The HLA B27 test is just like any other blood test. A lab technician visits your home when you book your tests through the MFine app. The lab technician first cleans the arm and then inserts a syringe into a vein. The required amount of blood is then taken into a vial. The lab technician then removes the needle and places cotton wool or a bandage over the prick.

Are there any risks involved with the HLA B27 test?

When blood is extracted, some people may feel uncomfortable. During the test, you may experience pain at the puncture site, as well as slight soreness or throbbing later. The HLA-B27 test has very little side effects. The following are the risks associated with all blood tests:

Collecting a sample is challenging, resulting in many needle prick
there may be some blood at the puncture location
fainting
Lightheadedness
In rare cases, a hematoma or an infection at the site of the puncture

However such complications are relatively rare. Most of the symptoms may pass after a few minutes of sitting. It may also be beneficial to eat a snack. Using an alcohol swab before the test prevents any chance of any infection at the site later. If you have a bruise, apply a cold compress to the area.

What can affect the results for HLA B27?

The findings of the HLA B27 test can be influenced by a variety of factors. These can result in either falsely negative or falsely positive results. The following are some of the major elements that might affect the testing results:

Any contamination to the collected blood sample might alter the test result.
Cross-reactivity of HLA B27 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with some other type of HLA-B antigens may also result in faulty test results.
Taking certain medications – Make sure your doctor is aware of all the medications you’re taking.
Radiation and chemotherapy.
A recent history of blood transfusion in the last 6 months.

Book a HLA B27 test to check your HLA B27 level!

Our Trusted Lab Partners for HLA B27 Test

MFine Diagnostics

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₹2500

Wellness Pathcare

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₹2500

Thyrocare

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₹2500

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Frequently asked questions | FAQs

Is the lab technician coming for HLA B27 sample collection vaccinated?

Yes. Our lab technicians are fully vaccinated. Further, they also ensure safety throughout by wearing a mask, gloves, and frequently sanitising themselves during the sample collection.

Does MFine provide the interpretation for the results along with the reports?

Yes, MFine provides the interpretation for the result along with the reports. You can also avail a free medical consultation with a doctor to understand your reports accurately. The doctor will also advise and prescribe medicines, if required, based on the results.

How can I download my HLA B27 test report?

Login to MFine
Go to your profile
Click on Attachment and Reports
Click on Lab Report
Download the report

Are there any discount offers running on the HLA B27 test?

Usually you can avail of up to 50% discount on Hla B27 through MFine. However, the discount and test price may vary based on lab partner and location.

What do abnormal test results indicate?

Results are indicated as Positive or Negative.

A positive HLA B27 test indicates that the individual is at a higher risk of acquiring autoimmune disorders. Chronic pain, inflammation, and/or degenerative changes in the bones (as shown on X-ray) support a diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, or a similar inflammatory condition linked to HLA B27. This is especially true if the person who initially had symptoms is a young man less than 40 years of age.

If the test comes out negative, it means the marker was not found. This does not rule out the possibility that the individual tested has the suspected illness, as persons without the HLA B27 antigen can also have autoimmune disorders. Similarly, having the HLA B27 antigen does not guarantee that you will acquire one of these diseases. Researchers are seeking to figure out what variables contribute to persons with HLA B27 having a higher risk of acquiring certain diseases, as well as what causes them.

What does the test measure?

HLA B27 or Human leukocyte antigen B27 is a specific protein and a genetic marker that is only found on the surface of cells. This test helps to detect the existence or nonexistence of HLA B27 protein on the surface of WBCs.

What are the causes of autoimmune illnesses linked to HLA B27?

In the vast majority of instances, the reason is unknown. However, in certain cases of reactive arthritis, there is a link between the development of the disease and prior infection with a microorganism such as Chlamydia, Campylobacter, Salmonella, Ureaplasma, or Yersinia. Similarities between the HLA B27 antigen and antigens present on the surface of bacteria are hypothesised to cause the immune system to fight both the germ and the person’s own tissues, resulting in the autoimmune condition after the infection has resolved.

What are the symptoms associated with a positive HLA B27 test?

The HLA B27 test may be performed in conjunction with other blood, urine, or imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis of an autoimmune illness in persons who have certain symptoms. The following symptoms may induce a clinician to request the test:

Joint discomfort
Persistent inflammation in your eye
Stiffness or swelling of your spine, neck, or chest
Inflammation of your joints or urethra accompanied by skin lesions

Your doctor may advise the testing in cases where there is planning on any tissue or organ transplant. This is done to determine that you and a donor are a good match.

Is it necessary for everyone to have an HLA B27 test?

The general population should not be tested on a regular basis. Only individuals who have symptoms are usually checked. A positive HLA B27 in someone who has no symptoms or a family history of HLA B27-related illness isn’t considered clinically relevant. It does not aid in the prediction of the onset of an autoimmune illness. A family member of someone who is HLA B27 positive and has an autoimmune condition may be tested on occasion, but the test result cannot be used to forecast whether the tested individual would get an autoimmune disease.

Is it necessary to fast for the HLA B27 blood test?

An HLA B27 Blood Test looks for HLA B27 genetic alterations, which have been linked to several types of arthritis. There is no need for fasting or any other special preparation needed before taking the test.

Disclaimer: The content is uniquely informative and is meant for educational use. Kindly use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified or registered healthcare provider.