What does HLA-B27 mean in Medical?

HLA-B27

Human Leukocyte Antigen B27 is a class I surface antigen encoded by the B locus in the major histocompatibility complex on chromosome 6 and presents antigenic peptides to T cells. HLA-B27 is strongly associated with ankylosing spondylitis, and other associated inflammatory diseases referred to "spondyloarthropathies". The prevalence of HLA-B27 varies markedly in the general population. For example, about 8% of Caucasians, 4% of North Africans, 2-9% of Chinese, and 0.1-0.5% of persons of Japanese descent possess this gene. In northern Scandinavia, 24% of people are HLA-B27 positive, while 1.8% have associated ankylosing spondylitis. A small group of people infected with HIV are able to remain symptom-free for many years without medication. These "HIV controllers" appear to be slightly more common among people who are HLA-B27 positive.

see more »