HLA-B*57:01 (B57)
| Category | Immunology |
|---|---|
| Test background |
Most patients can safely take abacavir; however, a small number of patients experience a severe side effect known as abacavir hypersensitivity. The most common symptoms are skin rash, fever, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. About 5% of patients who take abacavir experience abacavir hypersensitivity. This reaction can sometimes be very serious and in some cases can cause death. Patients who are HLA-B*57:01 are much more likely to have this reaction than patients who do not. Therefore, patients with the HLA-B*57:01 gene should not take abacavir. Approximately 5-8% of Europeans, 1-2% of Asians, and 2% of Africans have this gene. |
| Clinical Indications |
Screening for Abacavir Hypersensitivity |
| Reference range | Negative |
| Sample & container required | 5-10 mL Whole Blood - EDTA ( 6 ml pink top) |
| Sample volume | 5 mls |
| Transport storage | Samples must be sent via first class post or courier |
| Turnaround time | 14 days |
| Notes | Samples must be sent via first class post or courier The laboratory is accredited for this test by the European Federation of Immunogenetics (EFI) however due to a change in platform it is currently awaiting UKAS accreditation under extension to scope. |