HLA-B27 Flow Cytometry Test
Short Name: HLA-B27
Also known as: HLA-B27 Antigen Test, Human Leukocyte Antigen B27 Test, HLA B27 Blood Test, HLA-B27 Typing by Flow Cytometry
HLA-B27 Flow Cytometry Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹3,500. Uses Flow Cytometry on Whole Blood samples. Results in Results are typically available within 1 week of sample collection and can be accessed via the online portal, email, or WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
Overview
The primary purpose of the HLA-B27 Flow Cytometry Test is to detect the presence of the HLA-B27 antigen, which is a genetic marker closely associated with several autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. This test aids clinicians in the differential diagnosis of conditions such as Ankylosing Spondylitis, Reactive Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Anterior Uveitis, and arthritis related to Inflammatory Bowel Disease. It is particularly useful when patients present with symptoms such as chronic inflammatory back pain, recurrent joint swelling, eye inflammation, or unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms. The test helps narrow down a diagnosis, guide further investigations, and support treatment decisions, especially when clinical presentation and radiological findings are inconclusive.
- Test Code
- 830
- CPT Code
- 81374
- ICD Code
- Z01.89
- Price
- ₹3,500
- Sample Type
- Whole Blood
- Result Time
- Results are typically available within 1 week of sample collection and can be accessed via the online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Flow Cytometry
Sample Collection
No special preparation, fasting, or medication adjustments are required before sample collection for the HLA-B27 Flow Cytometry Test. The patient should inform the phlebotomist about any recent blood transfusions or current immunosuppressive therapy.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A trained phlebotomist will collect approximately 4 mL of venous blood from a vein in the arm using standard venipuncture technique. The blood will be drawn into a Lavender Top (EDTA) or Green Top (Sodium Heparin) tube. The procedure typically takes less than 5 minutes.
Report Delivery
After blood collection, gentle pressure will be applied to the puncture site with cotton or a bandage for 3–5 minutes. The sample will be labelled and shipped at 18–22°C (room temperature). The sample must NOT be refrigerated or frozen. Patients may resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw.
Timeline: Results are typically available within 1 week of sample collection and can be accessed via the online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the HLA-B27 Flow Cytometry Test is to detect the presence of the HLA-B27 antigen, which is a genetic marker closely associated with several autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. This test aids clinicians in the differential diagnosis of conditions such as Ankylosing Spondylitis, Reactive Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Anterior Uveitis, and arthritis related to Inflammatory Bowel Disease. It is particularly useful when patients present with symptoms such as chronic inflammatory back pain, recurrent joint swelling, eye inflammation, or unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms. The test helps narrow down a diagnosis, guide further investigations, and support treatment decisions, especially when clinical presentation and radiological findings are inconclusive.
How to Prepare
- Provide 4 mL (minimum 2 mL) of whole blood in a Lavender Top (EDTA) or Green Top (Sodium Heparin) tube
- Ship the sample at 18–22°C (room temperature)
- DO NOT refrigerate or freeze the sample
- Label the sample correctly with patient name, date of birth, and sample ID
- Inform the lab about any recent blood transfusions or immunosuppressive medications
- Ensure the sample reaches the laboratory within 24 hours of collection
Doctor's Notes
"HLA-B27 testing is a valuable diagnostic adjunct when evaluating patients with chronic inflammatory back pain, recurrent uveitis, or peripheral arthritis suggestive of a spondyloarthropathy. A positive HLA-B27 result, combined with clinical features and imaging findings, significantly strengthens the diagnostic confidence for conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis. However, a positive result alone does not confirm disease, as approximately 5–8% of the healthy Indian population may carry HLA-B27. Clinical correlation is essential, and the test should always be interpreted in the context of the patient's symptoms, examination findings, and radiological results."
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample collected in incorrect tube type (not EDTA or Sodium Heparin)
- Hemolyzed, clotted, or lipemic samples
- Sample volume below minimum requirement (less than 2 mL)
- Sample received refrigerated or frozen
- Sample received more than 24 hours after collection
- Unlabelled or mismatched sample labels
Understanding Your Results
Negative
HLA-B27 antigen was not detected on the surface of lymphocytes. This reduces the likelihood of HLA-B27-associated conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis. However, it does not completely exclude spondyloarthropathies, as some affected individuals may be HLA-B27 negative.
Positive
HLA-B27 antigen was detected on the surface of lymphocytes. This increases the risk of HLA-B27-associated autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, including Ankylosing Spondylitis, Reactive Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Anterior Uveitis, and Inflammatory Bowel Disease-related arthritis. Clinical correlation with symptoms, examination findings, and imaging is essential for a definitive diagnosis.
You should consult your doctor if your HLA-B27 test result is positive and you are experiencing symptoms such as chronic back pain, joint swelling, eye redness or pain, skin rashes, or unexplained diarrhea. A positive HLA-B27 result requires clinical correlation and may need further investigation with imaging studies (X-rays, MRI) and additional blood tests (ESR, CRP). If your result is negative but symptoms persist, consult your doctor, as other conditions may be responsible. Early diagnosis and management of autoimmune conditions can significantly improve long-term outcomes.
Limitations
- ⚠HLA-B27 positivity does not confirm disease; approximately 5–8% of the healthy Indian population carries this antigen
- ⚠A negative HLA-B27 result does not completely rule out spondyloarthropathies, as some patients with these conditions are HLA-B27 negative
- ⚠This test detects the presence of HLA-B27 but does not distinguish between HLA-B27 subtypes (e.g., B*27:05 vs B*27:09)
- ⚠Results must always be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings, imaging studies, and other laboratory tests
- ⚠Cross-reactivity with other HLA antigens (e.g., HLA-B7) has been reported rarely with some flow cytometry reagents
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or discomfort at the blood draw site
- ●Rarely, slight swelling or infection at the venipuncture site
- ●No significant risks associated with this blood test
Interfering Factors
- ●Recent blood transfusion within the last 3 months may affect results due to donor lymphocytes
- ●Immunosuppressive medications may alter lymphocyte populations and antigen expression
- ●Sample collected in incorrect tube type (not EDTA or Sodium Heparin) may yield unreliable results
- ●Sample stored at refrigerated or frozen temperatures (required to be shipped at 18–22°C)
- ●Hemolyzed or clotted samples may not be suitable for analysis
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | HLA-B27 Flow Cytometry Test | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | HLA-B27 Flow Cytometry Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the HLA-B27 Flow Cytometry Test?
Why is the HLA-B27 Flow Cytometry Test done?
What sample is required for the HLA-B27 Flow Cytometry Test?
Is fasting required before the HLA-B27 Flow Cytometry Test?
How is the HLA-B27 Flow Cytometry Test performed?
What does a positive HLA-B27 result mean?
Can a negative HLA-B27 result rule out ankylosing spondylitis?
How long does it take to get the HLA-B27 Flow Cytometry Test results?
What is the cost of the HLA-B27 Flow Cytometry Test at DNA Labs India?
Is home sample collection available for the HLA-B27 Flow Cytometry Test?
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