Human Leukocyte Antigen B

Service Description

PCR-SSCP: HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) B typing is a test that determines the presence or absence of specific proteins, called antigens, on the surface of white blood cells (leukocytes). These antigens are determined by genes located on chromosome 6 in the human genome, and they play a critical role in the immune system's ability to distinguish self from non-self. The HLA system is complex, and there are many different HLA antigens that can be present on the surface of white blood cells. HLA B typing specifically identifies the presence or absence of the HLA B antigen, which is one of the most important antigens in the HLA system. HLA B typing is typically performed in the context of organ and tissue transplantation, as the HLA system plays a critical role in determining whether a transplanted organ or tissue will be accepted or rejected by the recipient's immune system. HLA B typing is also used in the diagnosis and management of certain autoimmune diseases, such as ankylosing spondylitis and psoriasis, as well as in forensic investigations to help identify individuals. HLA B typing is typically performed using a blood sample or a sample of cells from the lining of the mouth (buccal cells). The sample is then tested using a technique called polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to identify specific HLA B antigens present in the sample. Results of HLA B typing are reported as a set of numbers and letters that indicate which HLA B antigens are present.