Qualitative method for the detection in blood, by flow cytometry, of the specific HLA-B27 protein, which is found on the surface of white blood cells.

Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA) are proteins that help the body’s immune system differentiate between its own cells and foreign and harmful substances.

The presence of HLA-B27 is closely linked to ankylosing spondylitis (AS), a chronic inflammatory disease of the musculoskeletal system, and to some rheumatic disorders (Reiter’s syndrome, acute anterior uveitis, and inflammatory enteropathy).