HLA-B*57:01 (B57)
| Category | Immunology >> Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics |
|---|---|
| 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 | 4mL Whole Blood – EDTA (lavender top) |
| Sample volume | 4 mL |
| 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) and UKAS for HLA typing using EDTA samples.
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