HLA-B27 by PCR (EDTA)

The PCR for HLA-B27 (EDTA) Test is a highly sensitive molecular diagnostic assay that detects the presence of the HLA-B27 gene, a genetic marker strongly associated with several autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, including ankylosing spondylitis (AS), reactive arthritis, uveitis, psoriatic arthritis, and axial spondyloarthritis (SpA).

Using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology on a simple whole blood sample collected in an EDTA (lavender-top) tube, this test delivers accurate, rapid, and reliable results, helping rheumatologists confirm or rule out HLA-B27-related disorders in patients experiencing chronic back pain, joint stiffness, or unexplained inflammation.

Offered at Lab Tests Dubai with strict quality control and expert interpretation, this test plays a crucial role in early diagnosis, enabling timely treatment, improved mobility, and better long-term outcomes.

Why You Need This Test

You need the HLA-B27 PCR Test if:

• You suffer from chronic lower back pain and morning stiffness lasting over 3 months
• Your symptoms improve with exercise but not rest
• You have joint swelling, eye inflammation (uveitis), or skin rashes alongside pain
• You’re being evaluated for axial spondyloarthritis or seronegative arthritis
• A family member has been diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis
• You’re seeking answers after inconclusive X-rays or MRI findings

This test helps bridge the gap between symptoms and diagnosis often reducing years of uncertainty to just days.

Consider booking this test if you experience:

• Persistent dull back pain starting before age 45
• Stiffness in the spine or joints, especially in the morning
• Pain that worsens at night and improves with movement
• Heel pain (Achilles tendinitis or plantar fasciitis)
• Recurrent redness or pain in the eyes (uveitis)
• Family history of autoimmune joint disease
• Diarrhea or urinary infection followed by joint pain (reactive arthritis)

These may be early signs of HLA-B27-linked inflammatory arthritis best caught early for effective management.

Natural Production (Clarification: HLA-B27 Gene)

The HLA-B27 gene is naturally inherited as part of your immune system’s human leukocyte antigen (HLA) complex. It plays a role in how your body recognizes foreign substances — but in some people, it triggers an abnormal immune response leading to autoimmune attacks on joints and tissues.

While not everyone with HLA-B27 develops disease, having the gene increases risk:

• 90–95% of people with ankylosing spondylitis are HLA-B27 positive
• Up to 70% with reactive arthritis
• Higher prevalence in Middle Eastern and Northern European populations

This test uses PCR to detect the gene’s DNA sequence not antibodies or proteins making it more accurate than older methods like serotyping.

What Happens If Untreated

If HLA-B27-associated conditions go undiagnosed:

• Chronic inflammation can lead to spinal fusion (bamboo spine) in AS
• Progressive joint damage and disability
• Vision loss due to recurrent uveitis
• Reduced lung capacity and heart complications
• Long-term reliance on painkillers without addressing root cause

Early detection allows for disease-modifying treatments (e.g., biologics) that slow progression and preserve function.

How to Prepare for the Test

Preparation is simple:

• No fasting required

• Continue taking your regular medications unless advised otherwise

• Avoid blood transfusions within 72 hours (can affect DNA results)

• 4 mL whole blood in 1 Lavender-top (EDTA) tube

• Must be labeled with full name, DOB, and collection date

• Shipping Requirements:

• Ship refrigerated (2–8°C) in a biohazard bag with cold packs

• Complete Test Request Form (TRF) and include clinical notes (symptoms, imaging results)

We offer home blood collection across Dubai & UAE handled by trained phlebotomists.

Test Overview