P012 An HLA Typing for every JIA?

Abstract

Abstract Background Among the genetic susceptibility factors of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), the HLA class I and II genes are the most frequently involved. These HLA genes are extensively investigated, highlighting the role of self/non-self-balance in auto-immune and auto-inflammatory diseases. Methods We carried out a retrospective study of HLA class I and/or class II genes (HLA B and HLA DR genes) of 12 children. Genotyping was performed through microlymphocytotoxicity for class I (HLA B5 and B27) and through indirect immunofluorescence and PCR for class II (HLA DR4) Results The summarized results depict: 4 patients have the HLA B27 + 3 patients have the HLA B5+ 1 patient had the HLA DR JIA comprises a broad spectrum influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. The International League of Rheumatology Associations (ILAR) has defined seven categories of JIA consisting of a myriad of pediatric auto-immune and auto-inflammatory diseases. The HLA genomic region is also associated with a wide range of auto-immune diseases, encoding the HLA-DR, HLA-DQ, and HLA-DP proteins involved in the peptide’s presentations to HLA -class II-restricted CD4 + helper T cells. These mechanisms are involved in the pathogenesis of various diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Juvenile arthritis has also been associated with a single nucleotide polymorphism in the regulatory region of the interleukin-6 gene, close to the HLA coding region. Conclusion Genetic exploration of the HLA system in JIA, more accessible and less expensive than other targeted genetic typing, can be a helpful tool. Its usage ought to be encouraged and expanded in clinical practice.