HLA - B5 (+B51/52) GENOTYPING
🧬 Genetic Marker for Behcet's Disease📋 Test Specifications
- Report Turnaround: 4-5 Working Days.
- Sample Required: EDTA Whole Blood (Purple Top).
- Methodology: PCR-SSO / SSP (Molecular Genotyping).
- Fasting Required: No.
- Components: HLA-B5, B51, and B52 alleles.
What is the HLA-B5 Test?
This is a genetic blood test that looks for a specific protein on the surface of your white blood cells called Human Leukocyte Antigen B5 (HLA-B5).
This antigen is further split into two sub-types: HLA-B51 and HLA-B52. The test identifies whether you carry the genes for these specific markers, which are strongly linked to autoimmune disorders.
🔴 Link to Behcet's Disease
The primary reason doctors prescribe this test is to help diagnose Behcet's Disease.
HLA-B51 is the strongest known genetic risk factor for Behcet's. While having the gene doesn't mean you definitely have the disease, testing positive supports the diagnosis if you have symptoms like:
- Recurrent mouth ulcers.
- Genital sores.
- Eye inflammation (Uveitis).
- Skin lesions.
Why distinguish between B51 and B52?
HLA-B5 is the Broad Antigen. Modern testing splits this into:
- HLA-B51: Strongly associated with Behcet's Disease (Vasculitis).
- HLA-B52: Associated with other conditions like Takayasu Arteritis and Ulcerative Colitis in certain populations.
Our test provides a comprehensive report covering the broad antigen and its specific splits.
When is this Test Recommended?
Rheumatologists or Immunologists prescribe this test when:
- A patient presents with unexplained chronic inflammation.
- There is a history of recurring painful ulcers in the mouth or genitals.
- To differentiate Behcet's disease from other autoimmune conditions like Crohn's disease or Lupus.
Test Procedure
- Collection: A simple blood draw from the arm.
- Preparation: No special preparation or fasting is needed.
- Privacy: Genetic data is handled with strict confidentiality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Not necessarily. A positive HLA-B51 result increases the likelihood, but it is not a standalone diagnostic tool. A doctor will diagnose based on clinical symptoms combined with this test result.
Yes. HLA markers are inherited from parents. If you test positive, it means you inherited this gene profile.
This is a molecular DNA-based test (Genotyping), which requires DNA extraction and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) amplification, a complex process requiring time for accuracy.
Disclaimer: This test detects genetic markers associated with diseases but does not diagnose a condition by itself. Clinical correlation is mandatory.