HLA Hypersensitivity to Allopurinol (B*58:01) Test
Short Name: HLA B*58:01 Test
Also known as: Allopurinol Hypersensitivity Test, HLA-B*58:01 Screening, Pharmacogenetic Test for Allopurinol
HLA Hypersensitivity to Allopurinol (B*58:01) Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹8,000. Uses PCR, Sequencing on 4 mL (3 mL min.) whole blood in 1 Lavender Top (EDTA) tube OR 6 mL (3 mL min.) whole blood in 1 Yellow Top (ACD) tube OR Buccal swab collected in a sterile container. samples. Results in 10-12 days. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr SULOCHANA HEMCHANDRA HOLLA
Consultant Medical Geneticist · Reg: 8532
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the HLA Hypersensitivity to Allopurinol (B*58:01) Test is to identify individuals carrying the HLA-B*58:01 genetic variant, which predisposes them to severe hypersensitivity reactions when taking allopurinol. This test enables healthcare providers to make informed decisions about medication prescriptions, avoiding allopurinol in high-risk patients and preventing potentially fatal conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis.
- Test Code
- 813
- Price
- ₹8,000
- Sample Type
- 4 mL (3 mL min.) whole blood in 1 Lavender Top (EDTA) tube OR 6 mL (3 mL min.) whole blood in 1 Yellow Top (ACD) tube OR Buccal swab collected in a sterile container.
- Result Time
- 10-12 days
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- PCR, Sequencing
Sample Collection
No special preparation required. Inform the healthcare provider of any medications or recent medical procedures.
Method: Blood draw or Buccal swab
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in the arm or a buccal swab will be collected from the inside of the cheek. The process is quick and minimally invasive.
Report Delivery
Apply pressure to the puncture site to prevent bleeding. Resume normal activities unless otherwise advised.
Timeline: 10-12 days
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the HLA Hypersensitivity to Allopurinol (B*58:01) Test is to identify individuals carrying the HLA-B*58:01 genetic variant, which predisposes them to severe hypersensitivity reactions when taking allopurinol. This test enables healthcare providers to make informed decisions about medication prescriptions, avoiding allopurinol in high-risk patients and preventing potentially fatal conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis.
How to Prepare
- Ensure the collection site is clean and sterile
- For blood collection, use EDTA or ACD tubes as specified
- For buccal swab, avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes before collection
- Label samples correctly with patient information
- Ship refrigerated; do not freeze
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr SULOCHANA HEMCHANDRA HOLLA — MBBS, MD (Medical Genetics) · Reg. No. 8532
"As a nephrologist, I recommend the HLA B*58:01 test to identify patients at risk of severe hypersensitivity to allopurinol, helping to prevent life-threatening conditions like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or clotted blood samples
- Insufficient sample volume
- Incorrect container type or missing labels
- Samples not stored or shipped as instructed
Understanding Your Results
Consult a doctor if you experience symptoms like severe skin rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, or joint pain after taking allopurinol. Also, discuss this test with your doctor before starting allopurinol therapy, especially if you have a history of drug hypersensitivity or belong to high-risk ethnic groups.
Limitations
- ⚠This test only detects the HLA-B*58:01 variant; other hypersensitivity risks are not covered
- ⚠A negative result does not guarantee absence of all adverse reactions to allopurinol
- ⚠Testing may not be 100% accurate in all populations; clinical correlation is advised
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of bruising or infection at the blood draw site
- ●Rare allergic reaction to antiseptic used during swab collection
- ●No significant risks associated with the genetic test itself
Interfering Factors
- ●Recent blood transfusions may affect DNA analysis
- ●Contaminated or improperly collected samples
- ●Use of certain medications that alter immune response
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | HLA Hypersensitivity to Allopurinol (B*58:01) Test | Uric Acid Test | Kidney Function Test | HLA Typing | Genetic Screening Panel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | HLA Hypersensitivity to Allopurinol (B*58:01) Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
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