Popular science on spinal diseases: Debunking rumors 5: HLA-B27 positive: an “identity card” or a “misleader” of ankylosing spondylitis?

In the kaleidoscope of spinal health, HLA-B27 positivity seems to have become a mysterious and confusing symbol. Some people say that it is the "identity card" of ankylosing spondylitis, but is it really so? Today, let us unveil the mystery of HLA-B27 and explore the true connection between it and ankylosing spondylitis.

HLA-B27 positive: a common " misunderstanding "

Imagine you are holding a medical report with "HLA-B27 positive" written on it. Your heart skips a beat and the word "ankylosing spondylitis" immediately comes to mind. But wait, don't jump to conclusions, let's take a scientific adventure.

HLA-B27 is a type of human leukocyte antigen, which plays an important role in our immune system. The positive rate of HLA-B27 is indeed very high among patients with ankylosing spondylitis, but this does not mean that all HLA-B27 positive people will develop this disease. In fact, only about 5% of HLA-B27 positive people will develop ankylosing spondylitis.

The incidence of ankylosing spondylitis is affected by multiple factors

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints. Although HLA-B27 is closely associated with its onset, the occurrence of the disease is also affected by genetic, environmental, and other immune factors. Therefore, it is undoubtedly an oversimplification to equate HLA-B27 positivity with ankylosing spondylitis.

Correct interpretation of HLA-B27 test results

If you test positive for HLA-B27, don't panic. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, test results, and imaging tests to make an accurate diagnosis. Remember, HLA-B27 positivity is only one factor in the diagnosis process, not the only determining factor.

- Symptom analysis: Symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis include chronic back pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.

- Physical examination: Your doctor will do a physical examination to understand your range of motion, muscle strength, and pain location.

- Imaging examinations: Imaging examinations such as sacroiliac joint CT and MRI can help doctors observe changes in the spine and sacroiliac joints.

Importance of a healthy lifestyle

Even if you are HLA-B27 positive, it doesn’t mean your life has to be restricted. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet, getting enough exercise and getting enough sleep, can help maintain the health of your spine.

- Eat a balanced diet: Eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals to keep your bones healthy.

- Exercise regularly: Do low-impact aerobic exercise, such as swimming, walking, and yoga, to maintain spinal flexibility.

- Get enough sleep: Good sleep helps the body recover and the immune system function properly.

Conclusion: HLA-B27 positive, no need to panic

HLA-B27 positive may be a warning, but it is by no means a final verdict. Understand the truth, treat it scientifically, and use knowledge and courage to jointly resist the fog of rumors and embrace a healthy future.

Author: Wang Jiaxu, Department of Spine Surgery, 9th Medical Center, PLA General Hospital

Reviewer: Mu Xiaohong, Director of Orthopedics Department, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Vice Chairman of Bone and Joint Rehabilitation Committee of Chinese Rehabilitation Medicine Association

Chen Jiang, Chief Physician of Orthopedics Department, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Member of Bone and Joint Rehabilitation Committee of Chinese Rehabilitation Medicine Association