HLA-B27
The HLA-B27 test detects a genetic marker linked to inflammatory arthritis. It helps support diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis and related conditions.
Turnaround time
5 days
Biomarkers count
1
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Details about HLA-B27
What is the HLA-B27 test?
The HLA-B27 test is a blood test that detects the presence of the human leukocyte antigen B27 (HLA-B27) protein on white blood cells. HLA proteins play a key role in immune system regulation and how the body distinguishes between self and foreign cells.
HLA-B27 is strongly associated with a group of inflammatory conditions known as seronegative spondyloarthropathies, particularly ankylosing spondylitis. While many people with HLA-B27 never develop disease, its presence significantly increases susceptibility.
This test does not diagnose disease on its own, but provides valuable genetic context when symptoms and imaging suggest inflammatory arthritis.
Why do I need an HLA-B27 test?
The HLA-B27 test is used to support diagnosis when symptoms suggest inflammatory spinal or joint disease, especially when routine blood tests are inconclusive.
You may need an HLA-B27 test if you experience:
- Chronic lower back pain lasting more than 3 months
- Back stiffness worse in the morning or at night
- Pain that improves with movement, not rest
- Inflammation of joints, especially hips or spine
- Recurrent eye inflammation (uveitis)
- Unexplained joint swelling
- Family history of ankylosing spondylitis
- Suspected inflammatory arthritis with negative rheumatoid factor
Conditions commonly associated with HLA-B27 include:
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Reactive arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis (axial type)
- Enteropathic arthritis
- Acute anterior uveitis
Benefits of the HLA-B27 test
- Supports early diagnosis of inflammatory arthritis
Helps identify genetic susceptibility. - Useful in chronic back pain evaluation
Differentiates inflammatory from mechanical causes. - Guides referral to rheumatology
Supports specialist assessment decisions. - Clinically established genetic marker
Widely used in rheumatology practice. - Aids diagnosis when imaging is unclear
Complements MRI and X-ray findings. - One-time lifetime test
Genetic result does not change. - Helps assess family risk
Relevant for first-degree relatives. - Simple blood test
No fasting required.
Step by step – how the test works
You can access HLA-B27 testing UK-wide through two options:
- Clinic appointment
Attend your nearest UK clinic where a healthcare professional will take your blood sample. - At-home or hotel visit (£60 extra)
A qualified phlebotomist comes to your home or hotel, so you don’t need to travel.
Your sample is analysed in an accredited UK laboratory using immunological or molecular methods.
Your results explained
HLA-B27 negative
HLA-B27 not detected. This reduces the likelihood of certain inflammatory arthritis conditions but does not fully exclude them.
Typical UK interpretation:
- HLA-B27: Negative
HLA-B27 positive
HLA-B27 detected. Indicates increased genetic susceptibility to associated inflammatory conditions.
Typical UK interpretation:
- HLA-B27: Positive
Clinical interpretation required
Many healthy people are HLA-B27 positive and never develop disease. Results must be interpreted with symptoms and imaging.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.