HIAB27

Causes of ankylosing spondylitis

The cause of ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is not fully understood. However, a particular gene (unit of genetic material) has been identified that is closely linked to the condition.
HLA-B27

Research has shown most people who have ankylosing spondylitis carry a particular gene known as human leukocyte antigen B27 (HLA-B27). Among people with ankylosing spondylitis, nine out of 10 have HLA-B27.

It is thought that having HLA-B27 may make having ankylosing spondylitis more likely. However, if you have the gene it does not necessarily mean you will also have the condition. It is estimated that 8 in 100 people in the general population have the HLA-B27 gene but do not have ankylosing spondylitis.

Testing for the gene is not a very reliable method of diagnosing ankylosing spondylitis because some people can have the HLA-B27 gene but not have ankylosing spondylitis, and there are different subtypes of HLA-B27.

I actually carry this gene, and have not got ANK SPON..But my Brother has, I however have got Osteoarthritis instead...which my Conslutant said it the better of the two to actually have....I don't agree with him today, as I am climbing the walls with it !!!

Regards,Eddy.