Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No special preparation is required
- Turnaround: 6-8 days (may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays)
What This Test Measures
The HLA B27 Disease Association Blood Test detects the presence of the HLA-B27 genetic marker in a blood sample. This marker is an antigen associated with several inflammatory conditions affecting the joints, spine, and eyes, including ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, and certain forms of uveitis.
This test identifies whether the HLA-B27 marker is present in your blood. It does not measure other genetic markers, antibodies, or inflammatory substances. The presence of HLA-B27 reflects a genetic association with these conditions, not a direct measurement of disease activity or severity.
Benefits
- Identifies the presence of the HLA-B27 genetic marker
- Supports evaluation of symptoms linked to inflammatory joint disease
- Helps assess genetic predisposition to ankylosing spondylitis
- Provides information relevant to unexplained eye inflammation
- Convenient blood draw with no special preparation
- Adds genetic context to ongoing symptom evaluation
Who Is This Test For?
- People experiencing chronic back pain
- People with joint pain and stiffness
- People with eye inflammation (uveitis) of unclear cause
- People with a family history of ankylosing spondylitis or related conditions
- People with symptoms suggestive of an inflammatory autoimmune condition
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this test?
This test identifies whether the HLA-B27 genetic marker is present in your blood. The result may help a healthcare provider evaluate symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, and certain types of uveitis. The presence of this marker does not by itself diagnose any condition; it is one piece of information your provider may use alongside your symptoms, history, and other findings.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
This test may be useful for people experiencing chronic back pain, joint pain and stiffness, or unexplained eye inflammation. It may also be considered by people with a family history of ankylosing spondylitis or related conditions who want to understand their genetic association with these disorders.
3. When should I order this test?
You might consider ordering this test if you are experiencing symptoms such as chronic back pain, joint pain and stiffness, eye inflammation, enthesitis, fatigue, skin rashes, or gastrointestinal symptoms. Discussing these symptoms with your healthcare provider can help determine whether checking for the HLA-B27 marker is appropriate for your situation.
4. What does this test measure?
This test measures the presence or absence of the HLA-B27 antigen in a blood sample. It is a genetic marker test, not a measurement of a hormone, protein concentration, or enzyme level. The result reflects whether this specific marker is detected in your blood; it does not measure the severity or activity of any related condition, and it does not include testing for other genetic markers or biomarkers.
5. Do I need to fast before this test?
No special preparation is required for this test.
6. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 6-8 days. Results may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
7. How do I interpret the results?
The meaning of your HLA-B27 result depends on your individual symptoms, medical history, and other clinical findings. A positive result indicates the marker is present, but this does not confirm that you have any specific condition, since some people with the marker never develop related symptoms. A negative result does not rule out an inflammatory condition, as not all cases are associated with this marker. Your healthcare provider can help interpret your result in the context of your overall health picture.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
8. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
your result shows the HLA-B27 marker is present, review your results with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help place the finding in the context of your symptoms and overall health, and may consider additional evaluation if appropriate. This test result alone does not provide a complete clinical picture.
9. How often should I get tested?
There is no standard retesting schedule for this genetic marker test. Follow up with testing as directed by your healthcare provider based on your individual symptoms and health needs.
Pre test preparation
No special preparation is required.
