HLA B5 in Dattatreya-colony, Hyderabad

HLA B5: Price, Purpose, Range & Reports

Test Overview

The HLA B5 Test is a genetic marker test that detects the presence of the Human Leukocyte Antigen B5 (HLA-B5) on the surface of white blood cells. HLA proteins are part of the body's Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) and play a critical role in immune system regulation and distinguishing self from non-self. The presence of the HLA-B5 antigen is a significant risk factor strongly associated with certain autoimmune conditions, most notably Behcet's disease (a rare disorder causing blood vessel inflammation). 

By detecting the presence or absence of this specific genetic marker, healthcare providers can assess an individual's predisposition and aid in the diagnosis of Behcet's disease and other HLA-related inflammatory conditions. If you are searching for a reliable HLA B5 Test price or a convenient test near me, Apollo 24|7 provides accredited laboratory services with timely collection and secure, fast report access.

What is the HLA B5 Test?

The HLA B5 Test is a blood test used to screen for the presence of the HLA-B5 allele. The Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) system is a gene complex on chromosome 6 that encodes proteins found on the surface of nearly all nucleated cells. These proteins are crucial for presenting antigens (foreign substances) to T-cells, thereby initiating an immune response.

HLA-B5 is one of many antigens within the HLA-B group. Its detection is primarily used to confirm a suspected diagnosis of Behcet's disease, a chronic, multi-system inflammatory disorder characterised by recurrent oral and genital ulcers, and eye inflammation (uveitis). A positive result does not definitively confirm the disease but adds a strong genetic component to the clinical diagnosis. This test requires specialised laboratory techniques, such as serological typing or advanced DNA-based methods (e.g., PCR), to accurately identify the specific allele.

What is the HLA B5 Test Price?

The cost of the HLA B5 test reflects the complexity and specialisation involved in performing genetic typing. Unlike routine blood tests, this test requires advanced technology and expert handling, which contributes to its higher price.

Here are the main factors that influence the cost:

• Testing Method: Labs often use advanced DNA-based techniques such as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) or Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). These methods offer high accuracy but are more expensive than older approaches.
• Specialised Laboratories: The test is conducted in labs equipped for tissue typing and genetic analysis. These facilities require skilled professionals and strict quality controls, which add to the overall cost.
• Service Type: Whether the blood sample is collected at a lab facility or through a home collection service may marginally affect the final price.

For the most up-to-date and competitive HLA B5 Test price near me, you can check the Apollo 24|7 website or app. Prices are regularly updated based on your location and include all applicable offers.

Who Needs an HLA B5 Test?

The HLA B5 test is usually recommended when a doctor suspects Behcet’s disease or wants to gather more information to support a diagnosis. It is not a routine test and is typically ordered based on specific symptoms, risk factors, or medical history.

You may be considered for this test if:

• You have repeated mouth ulcers that are painful and keep coming back.
• You experience genital ulcers that are not caused by infections or other known conditions.
• You have eye inflammation, such as redness, pain, or blurred vision, which may be due to uveitis or iritis.
• You show skin symptoms, including red, tender bumps (often on the legs) or acne-like lesions.
• You have signs of blood vessel inflammation, such as swelling, pain, or clotting.
• You experience joint pain or swelling that doesn’t match typical arthritis patterns.
• You come from a region where Behcet’s disease is more common, such as parts of Asia, the Middle East, or the Mediterranean.
• Your doctor is trying to rule out other conditions that may look similar, such as lupus or other autoimmune diseases.
• You have a family history of Behcet’s disease or related inflammatory conditions.
• Your doctor sees a combination of symptoms that raise concern for Behcet’s disease, even if they don’t all appear at once.

What is the Purpose of the Test?

The HLA B5 test is a genetic blood test that helps doctors gather more information when evaluating certain inflammatory conditions, especially Behcet’s disease. It does not diagnose the disease on its own, but it can support the overall clinical picture.

Here’s how the test is used:

• Support Diagnosis: If your symptoms suggest Behcet’s disease but are not typical or complete, this test can help your doctor decide whether the condition is more likely.
• Understand Genetic Risk: In some parts of the world where Behcet’s disease is more common, a positive result may point to a higher chance of having or developing the condition.
• Differentiate Between Conditions: Behcet’s disease can look similar to other illnesses that cause recurring ulcers or inflammation. This test may help your doctor tell them apart.
• Guide Clinical Decisions: Knowing whether the HLA B5 marker is present can help your doctor make more informed choices about monitoring and treatment.

Components of the HLA B5 Test

The HLA B5 Test is a qualitative assay performed on a blood sample. The test focuses on the detection of the specific antigen:

• HLA B5 Antigen: The result determines the presence or absence of the HLA B5 allele on the surface of the patient's white blood cells.

Understanding an HLA B5 Test Report

The HLA B5 Test is a qualitative assay, meaning the result indicates the presence or absence of the marker.

The result will typically be reported as either 'Detected' (Positive) or 'Not Detected' (Negative):

Important Considerations

• Diagnosis is Clinical: Behcet's disease is diagnosed based primarily on clinical symptoms (recurrent ulcers, eye inflammation, etc.), often using criteria like the International Criteria for Behcet's Disease (ICBD). The HLA B5 test is a supporting laboratory marker.
• Not All Positive Results Mean Disease: A positive HLA B5 result only indicates genetic susceptibility; many healthy individuals carry the gene without ever developing Behcet's disease.
• Correlation with Symptoms: The results must always be interpreted by a specialist (e.g., rheumatologist or ophthalmologist) in the context of the patient's full medical history and current symptoms.
• Genetic Variation: The specific subtype, such as HLA-B51, is often the one most strongly linked to the disease. The report may specify the exact subtype found.

Preparation and Procedure for the HLA B5 Test

The HLA B5 Test requires a standard blood draw and generally involves minimal preparation.

1. How is the Test Done?

• The test requires a standard venous blood sample.
• A phlebotomist (sample collector) will draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm using a sterile needle and collection tube.
• The process is quick and routine, lasting only a few minutes.
• The collected blood sample is then sent to the specialised laboratory for analysis.

2. Dietary and Medication Restrictions

• No Fasting Required: You do not need to fast before taking the HLA B5 test.
• Medication: Unlike some other tests, standard medications typically do not interfere with the genetic analysis for HLA markers. However, you should always inform your healthcare provider of any current medications you are taking.
• Recent Transfusion/Transplantation: If you have received a recent blood transfusion or bone marrow transplant, this may affect the results, and you should inform your doctor immediately.

3. What Time of the Day Should I Undergo the Test?

The HLA B5 test can be done at any time of day. Time of sample collection does not affect the result because genetic markers like HLA B5 remain constant throughout the day. You may schedule the test at a time that is convenient for you and the collection centre.

Booking HLA B5 Test Online & Checking Reports

Apollo 24|7 provides a convenient and confidential way to schedule your HLA B5 Test and access your results quickly.

A. What are the Steps to Schedule the Test on Apollo 24|7?

1. Visit the Apollo 24|7 website or mobile application and search for the HLA B5 test.
2. Confirm the latest HLA B5 Test price for your city and click the 'Book Now' button.
3. Select your preferred date and a convenient time slot for the sample collection.
4. Complete the secure online payment. Confirmation details and preparation reminders will be sent instantly.

B. How Do I Access My Test Results Online on Apollo 24|7?

1. Log in to your Apollo 24|7 account using your registered phone number or email.
2. Navigate to the 'Health Records' or 'My Reports' section on the dashboard.
3. Click on your completed test name to view the detailed report immediately.
4. You can easily view the entire report online or download it in PDF format to share with your physician.

Conclusion

The HLA B5 test is a valuable genetic tool that supports the diagnostic process for Behcet’s disease and other inflammatory conditions. It provides a qualitative result, either Detected or Not Detected, which indicates the presence or absence of the HLA B5 genetic marker.

This marker reflects a genetic predisposition and should not be used alone to confirm a diagnosis. A comprehensive clinical evaluation by a specialist is essential to interpret the result correctly and determine its relevance to your symptoms and medical history. When performed by accredited laboratories, the HLA B5 test offers important insights that can help guide clinical decisions, support accurate diagnosis, and inform personalised treatment planning.