About Us | Privacy | Site Map
June 19, 2013
Font Size
A
A
A
2
...

Ankylosing Spondylitis, Ophthalmologic Perspective (cont.)

Medical Author:
Medical Editor:

HLA-B27 Gene

A specific gene for the HLA-B27 tissue type is present in many people who have ankylosing spondylitis. Of people with ankylosing spondylitis, 80%-95% also have the gene for HLA-B27. This does not mean, however, that a person will automatically get ankylosing spondylitis if he or she has the gene. Although about 8% of Americans have the gene for HLA-B27, less than 1% of the population actually has or will develop ankylosing spondylitis. However, if a person is thought to have ankylosing spondylitis, a blood test is useful to determine if that person has the gene for HLA-B27.

In the early stages of ankylosing spondylitis, determining a definite diagnosis is sometimes difficult. If a person has the specific signs and symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis and he or she has the gene for HLA-B27, the diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis is likely correct.

Must Read Articles Related to Ankylosing Spondylitis, Ophthalmologic Perspective

Ankylosing Spondylitis, Orthopedic Perspective
Ankylosing Spondylitis, Orthopedic Perspective Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the spine and the connection of the spine to the pelvis (sacroiliac joints). Sacroiliac joint ...learn more >>
Ankylosing Spondylitis, Radiologic Perspective
Ankylosing Spondylitis, Radiologic Perspective Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of progressive arthritis that leads to chronic inflammation of the spine and the area where the spine joins the pelvis (sa...learn more >>
Ankylosing Spondylitis, Rheumatologic Perspective
Ankylosing Spondylitis, Rheumatologic Perspective Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of arthritis that involves the spine and the sacroiliac (SI) joints (joints between the lowest end of the spine, called th...learn more >>

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Please acknowledge your agreement




Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Ankylosing Spondylitis »

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic, progressive inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the axial skeleton.

Read More on Medscape Reference »


Medical Dictionary


Use Pill Finder Find it Now

Pill Identifier on RxList

  • quick, easy,
    pill identification

Find a Local Pharmacy

  • including 24 hour, pharmacies