Increased frequency of HLA-B 27 is seen in all the following diseases except –
**Core Concept**
The question is testing the association between HLA-B27 and various autoimmune and rheumatological conditions. HLA-B27 is a protein on the surface of white blood cells that plays a crucial role in the immune system's ability to distinguish between the body's own proteins and proteins made by foreign invaders. Certain genetic variations, including HLA-B27, can increase the risk of developing autoimmune diseases.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
HLA-B27 is strongly associated with ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, and other forms of spondyloarthritis. This is because HLA-B27 molecules are more likely to bind to certain peptides, leading to an abnormal immune response that triggers inflammation in the spine and other joints. In these conditions, the presence of HLA-B27 is a significant risk factor, especially in individuals with a family history of the disease.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect because HLA-B27 is not strongly associated with multiple sclerosis. While multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease, its pathogenesis is complex and involves multiple genetic and environmental factors, not just HLA-B27.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect because HLA-B27 is associated with psoriatic arthritis, a form of spondyloarthritis that affects individuals with psoriasis. The presence of HLA-B27 increases the risk of developing psoriatic arthritis in people with psoriasis.
* **Option C:** This option is incorrect because HLA-B27 is not associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). SLE is a complex autoimmune disease that involves multiple genetic and environmental factors, and HLA-B27 is not a significant risk factor.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
HLA-B27 testing is not used as a diagnostic tool for ankylosing spondylitis, but it can be used to rule out other conditions in patients with a family history of the disease. It's essential to consider the clinical presentation and other diagnostic criteria when evaluating patients for spondyloarthritis.
**Correct Answer:** A. Multiple sclerosis