Name of the Procedure:

HLA Typing; A, B, or C (e.g., A10, B7, B27), Single Antigen

Summary

HLA typing is a blood test used to identify specific human leukocyte antigens (HLA) present on the surface of cells. These antigens play a crucial role in the body’s immune response. The test is often used to ensure compatibility for organ, tissue, or bone marrow transplants.

Purpose

HLA typing helps match donors and recipients for organ and tissue transplants to reduce the risk of rejection and improve transplant success rates. It also identifies individuals at higher risk for certain autoimmune diseases.

Indications

• Patients needing organ or tissue transplants.
• Individuals being considered as potential organ or tissue donors.
• People being evaluated for autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis.
• Individuals with a family history of HLA-related disorders.

Preparation

• No special preparation is usually required.
• Patients may be advised to inform their healthcare provider about any medications they are taking.
• A blood sample will be required, typically drawn from a vein in the arm.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare provider will draw a blood sample from the patient’s vein using a needle and syringe.
2. The blood sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
3. In the lab, cells are isolated from the blood, and their HLA antigens are identified using techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or serological testing.

Duration

The blood draw itself takes about 5-10 minutes. Laboratory analysis can take a few days to a week.

Setting

Usually performed in an outpatient clinic, hospital lab, or specialized medical laboratory.

Personnel

• Phlebotomist or nurse for blood draw.
• Laboratory technician or medical technologist for analysis.

Risks and Complications

• Minor risks include bleeding, bruising, or infection at the blood draw site.
• Rarely, a patient may feel dizzy or faint during or after the blood draw.

Benefits

• Helps ensure compatibility for organ and tissue transplants, reducing risk of rejection.
• Identifies risk factors for certain autoimmune diseases, enabling early intervention.

Recovery

• No significant recovery time needed.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw.

Alternatives

• Crossmatching tests, which assess the compatibility between donor and recipient blood.
• Serological testing methods for broader antigen detection, though HLA typing provides more specific results.

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel a slight pinprick during the blood draw.
• Mild discomfort at the puncture site, which usually resolves quickly.
• Minimal disruption to daily activities; most people can return to their routine immediately.