Genetic analysis of ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament.

Abstract

The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) haplotypes in families of patients with known ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) were reviewed. To clarify how genetic factors relate to the development of OPLL. The association between genetic factors and the development of OPLL is still unknown. The association between HLA haplotypes and OPLL was studied in families of 24 patients with OPLL. The prevalence of OPLL was higher in the siblings showing a higher share of identical HLA haplotypes: 10 (53%) of 19 with concurrence of two strands, and 5 (24%) of 21 with concurrence of one strand. Of 21 subjects who had no HLA haplotype identical with that in OPLL patients, only one showed evidence of OPLL. Genetic factors predispose toward the development of OPLL.