In search of HLA-B27 (C-100433)
30 April 2020
Spring 2020
Half of those with anterior uveitis carry the HLA-B27 antigen on their white blood cells. Kim Thomas explores the role this genetic association plays in eye disorders.
Domains covered
Communication
Clinical practice
Human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) are molecules found on the surface of most cells in the body that regulate the immune system. It is not entirely clear how HLA-B27, which appears on white blood cells, influences immune dysfunction. The connection between HLA-B27 and the inflammatory rheumatic disorder ankylosing spondylitis was discovered in 1972. Since then, the role it plays in a number of disorders, including anterior uveitis, has become more apparent.
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