Study of Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) Polymorphisms in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Study of HLA Polymorphisms in French West-Indian Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis : A Case Control Study

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), affects between 0.3% and 1.0% of the population, it can lead to progressive joint destruction and severe disability. To date, two RA genetic susceptibility factors have been identified: HLA-DRB1-SE (Shared epitope) and PTPN22 620W alleles. The predictive value of the alleles for diagnosis of RA was previously investigated in cohorts of caucasians patients with early unclassified arthritis that showed restrained association between RA and HLA-SE. Despite the contribution of HLA to the overall genetic risk has been estimated to range from 30% to 50%, it has never been studied in the French west-Indian population.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis according to ACR criteria
• Come from French West Indies (At least 3 grandparents are African-Caribbean)
• Sign written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Minor
• Patient with no Rheumatoid Arthritis according to ACR criteria
• Patient does not agree for a genetic study

For the control

Inclusion Criteria:

• Blood donor
• Sign written informed consent
• Patient with no Rheumatoid Arthritis according to ACR criteria
• Come from French West Indies (At least 3 grandparents are African-Caribbean)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Minor
• Patient does not agree for a genetic study