Research progress in the relationship between HLA-B27 and ankylosing spondylitis

Abstract

Background Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a common autoimmune joint disease, which mostly occurs to young men. Early diagnose of AS is difficult and the treatment is not satisfactory at present. Studies have been released that there is a strong relationship bewteen Human leucocyte antigen-B27 (HLA-B27). It is estimated that 90% AS patients were HLA-B27 positive, which was thought of vital importance for early diagnosis of AS. Objective This paper will review the relationship between AS and HLA -B27 which would provide the base on diagnosis and treatment of AS. Content This paper focuses on AS pathogenesis, pathology and clinical manifestations to summarize the relationship and diagnosis significance between HLA -B27 and AS. Trend The HLA-B27 antigen has a high correlation with AS, which can be used as an important clinical indicator for early diagnosis of AS. However it should be mentioned that any exaggeration of the role of HLA-B27 in the diagnosis of AS should be avoided, particular in HLA-B27 negative patients. Key words: Ankylosing spondylitis; HLA-B27 Antigen