First of all, it is very important to understand that Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is not a genetic disease. Though the genes are inherited, additional environmental & other (Presently unknown factors) determine whether one will eventually develop Ankylosing spondylitis.

I am HLA-B27 positive & have Ankylosing spondylitis. What are the chances of my child inheriting AS?

If one of the parents is HLA-B27 positive, then there is 50% chance that the child will inherit the gene. The chances of your child developing Ankylosing Spondylitis in the long run range from 5% to 20% 3. If mother has AS, children have a higher chance of inheriting & developing ankylosing spondylitis (as against father with AS). 38% of children of AS mothers had disease compared with 8% of AS fathers. Sons and brothers of male patients had a higher chance of developing AS than did daughters and sisters.

I have a sibling with Ankylosing spondylitis; what are chances of me developing the same?

If you are B27 positive, the estimated risk is 12%. If you are B27 negative chances of you developing Ankylosing Spondylitis is very low.

I am HLA-B27 positive & have Ankylosing spondylitis. Should I get my child’s HLA-B27 report done?

No. Even if your child is HLA-B27 positive, it is not necessary that he/ she may develop Ankylosing spondylitis. Hence it is not necessary to get the HLA-B27 report done. However, if your child ever has pain/ swelling in any joint/ persistent backahe, see a Rheumatologist immediately.