What is a HLA Typing test?

HLA typing, or Human Leukocyte Antigen typing, is a test that identifies the specific proteins on the surface of human cells. These proteins, called human leukocyte antigens (HLAs), play a crucial role in the immune system. HLA molecules help the immune system distinguish between the body’s own cells and foreign substances, such as bacteria or viruses.

The HLA typing test is primarily performed to assess the compatibility between the tissues of a donor and recipient, especially in the context of organ or tissue transplantation. Matching HLA types between a donor and recipient increases the likelihood of a successful transplant by reducing the risk of rejection.

HLA typing is also important in the field of immunology and research, as variations in HLA genes can be associated with certain autoimmune diseases and conditions. Understanding HLA types helps researchers investigate the genetic basis of immune-related disorders.

HLA Typing test cost in Tanzania-

The average cost of an HLA typing test in Tanzania typically ranges from 500,000 to 700,000 Tanzanian Shilling. This cost encompasses the comprehensive laboratory analysis required to determine the specific HLA profile of an individual, which is crucial for organ transplantation compatibility assessments and other immunological investigations.

State HLA Typing Test Cost Range (TZS) HLA Typing Test Cost Range (USD)
Dar es Salaam 500,000 – 700,000 $220 – $310
Arusha 550,000 – 750,000 $240 – $330
Dodoma 480,000 – 680,000 $210 – $300
Mwanza 520,000 – 720,000 $230 – $320
Kilimanjaro 510,000 – 710,000 $225 – $315
Mbeya 490,000 – 690,000 $215 – $305
Zanzibar 530,000 – 730,000 $235 – $325
Tanga 470,000 – 670,000 $205 – $295
Morogoro 480,000 – 680,000 $210 – $300

Types of HLA Typing tests –

Type of HLA Typing Test Purpose Cost Range (USD) Cost Range (TZS)
HLA-A Typing Organ transplant compatibility assessment $250 – $350 550,000 – 770,000 TZS
HLA-B Typing Tissue matching for transplantation $280 – $380 620,000 – 840,000 TZS
HLA-C Typing Identifying immune response compatibility $230 – $330 510,000 – 730,000 TZS
HLA-DR Typing Assessing susceptibility to autoimmune diseases $300 – $400 660,000 – 880,000 TZS
HLA-DQ Typing Research in immunology and disease genetics $260 – $360 570,000 – 790,000 TZS
HLA-DP Typing Transplantation compatibility assessment $270 – $370 590,000 – 810,000 TZS
HLA-DNA Sequencing Detailed genetic analysis for transplantation $350 – $450 770,000 – 990,000 TZS
HLA Class I and II Panel Comprehensive panel for transplant evaluation $400 – $500 880,000 – 1,100,000 TZS
HLA Crossmatching Checking compatibility between donor and recipient $320 – $420 700,000 – 920,000 TZS
HLA Antibody Screening Detecting antibodies that may impact transplantation $280 – $380 620,000 – 840,000 TZS
HLA-Linked Disease Testing Identifying genetic predisposition to certain diseases $330 – $430 720,000 – 940,000 TZS
HLA Haplotype Testing Analyzing groups of genes inherited together $310 – $410 680,000 – 900,000 TZS
HLA-B27 Typing Associated with conditions like ankylosing spondylitis $290 – $390 640,000 – 860,000 TZS
HLA-Cw Typing Transplant compatibility and disease association $240 – $340 530,000 – 750,000 TZS
HLA-Diabetes Association Investigating HLA links to diabetes susceptibility $360 – $460 790,000 – 1,010,000 TZS
HLA and Infectious Diseases Panel Assessing immune response to infectious agents $310 – $410 680,000 – 900,000 TZS
HLA-G Typing Studying the role of HLA-G in immune response $270 – $370 590,000 – 810,000 TZS
HLA-E Typing Understanding the function of HLA-E in immunity $250 – $350 550,000 – 770,000 TZS
HLA and Rheumatoid Arthritis Panel Investigating HLA links to rheumatoid arthritis $320 – $420 700,000 – 920,000 TZS
HLA and Multiple Sclerosis Panel Studying HLA associations with multiple sclerosis $340 – $440 750,000 – 920,000 TZS

HLA Typing test cost in 10 hospitals of Tanzania-

Hospital Location HLA Typing Test Cost Range (USD) HLA Typing Test Cost Range (TZS)
Muhimbili National Hospital Dar es Salaam $300 – $400 660,000 – 880,000 TZS
Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center Moshi $320 – $420 700,000 – 920,000 TZS
Aga Khan Hospital Dar es Salaam $280 – $380 620,000 – 840,000 TZS
Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute Dar es Salaam $350 – $450 770,000 – 990,000 TZS
Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre Arusha $310 – $410 680,000 – 900,000 TZS
Dodoma Regional Referral Hospital Dodoma $290 – $390 640,000 – 860,000 TZS
Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital Mbeya $330 – $430 720,000 – 940,000 TZS
Bugando Medical Centre Mwanza $300 – $400 660,000 – 880,000 TZS
Mnazi Mmoja Hospital Zanzibar $280 – $380 620,000 – 840,000 TZS
Tanga Regional Referral Hospital Tanga $320 – $420 700,000 – 920,000 TZS

HLA Typing test cost in 10 hospitals of Dar es Salaam,Tanzania-

Hospital Location HLA Typing Test Cost Range (USD) HLA Typing Test Cost Range (TZS)
Muhimbili National Hospital Dar es Salaam $300 – $400 660,000 – 880,000 TZS
Aga Khan Hospital Dar es Salaam $280 – $380 620,000 – 840,000 TZS
Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute Dar es Salaam $350 – $450 770,000 – 990,000 TZS
Hindu Mandal Hospital Dar es Salaam $310 – $410 680,000 – 900,000 TZS
Mwananyamala Regional Referral Hospital Dar es Salaam $320 – $420 700,000 – 920,000 TZS
Regency Medical Centre Dar es Salaam $290 – $390 640,000 – 860,000 TZS
Oysterbay Hospital Dar es Salaam $330 – $430 720,000 – 940,000 TZS
AAR Healthcare Tanzania Limited Dar es Salaam $300 – $400 660,000 – 880,000 TZS
Mikocheni Hospital Dar es Salaam $280 – $380 620,000 – 840,000 TZS
Dar es Salaam Medical Centre Dar es Salaam $320 – $420 700,000 – 920,000 TZS

HLA Typing test cost in 10 hospitals of Arusha, Tanzania-

Hospital Location HLA Typing Test Cost Range (USD) HLA Typing Test Cost Range (TZS)
Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center Arusha $320 – $420 700,000 – 920,000 TZS
Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre Arusha $310 – $410 680,000 – 900,000 TZS
Mount Meru Regional Referral Hospital Arusha $330 – $430 720,000 – 940,000 TZS
Arusha Medical Centre Arusha $300 – $400 660,000 – 880,000 TZS
FAME Medical Karatu $290 – $390 640,000 – 860,000 TZS
St. Elizabeth Hospital Arusha $340 – $440 750,000 – 970,000 TZS
Nairobi Arusha Clinic Arusha $310 – $410 680,000 – 900,000 TZS
Karatu Lutheran Hospital Karatu $280 – $380 620,000 – 840,000 TZS
KCMC Private Clinic Arusha $300 – $400 660,000 – 880,000 TZS
Tengeru Hospital Arusha $320 – $420 700,000 – 920,000 TZS

HLA Typing test cost in 10 hospitals of Dodoma,Tanzania-

Hospital Location HLA Typing Test Cost Range (USD) HLA Typing Test Cost Range (TZS)
Dodoma Regional Referral Hospital Dodoma $290 – $390 640,000 – 860,000 TZS
CCBRT Dodoma Dodoma $310 – $410 680,000 – 900,000 TZS
St. Gemma Galgani Hospital Dodoma $320 – $420 700,000 – 920,000 TZS
Makole Ward Hospital Dodoma $300 – $400 660,000 – 880,000 TZS
Tanzania Medical Laboratory Services Ltd. Dodoma $330 – $430 720,000 – 940,000 TZS
Dodoma Christian Medical Centre Dodoma $280 – $380 620,000 – 840,000 TZS
St. John’s University of Tanzania – Dodoma Campus Dodoma $340 – $440 750,000 – 970,000 TZS
CCBRT Maternity Hospital – Dodoma Dodoma $310 – $410 680,000 – 900,000 TZS
Lugalo Military Hospital Dodoma $300 – $400 660,000 – 880,000 TZS
Nala Hospital Dodoma $320 – $420 700,000 – 920,000 TZS

HLA Typing test cost in 10 hospitals of Mwanza,Tanzania-

Hospital Location HLA Typing Test Cost Range (USD) HLA Typing Test Cost Range (TZS)
Bugando Medical Centre Mwanza $300 – $400 660,000 – 880,000 TZS
Sekou Toure Regional Hospital Mwanza $310 – $410 680,000 – 900,000 TZS
Mwanza Regional Referral Hospital Mwanza $330 – $430 720,000 – 940,000 TZS
St. Augustine University of Tanzania – Mwanza Campus Mwanza $320 – $420 700,000 – 920,000 TZS
Isamilo Hospital Mwanza $290 – $390 640,000 – 860,000 TZS
Buzuruga District Hospital Mwanza $340 – $440 750,000 – 970,000 TZS
Pasiansi Wildlife Training Institute Mwanza $310 – $410 680,000 – 900,000 TZS
St. Augustine Hospital – Mwanza Mwanza $280 – $380 620,000 – 840,000 TZS
Nyamagana District Hospital Mwanza $320 – $420 700,000 – 920,000 TZS
Ilemela District Hospital Mwanza $300 – $400 660,000 – 880,000 TZS

HLA Typing test cost in 10 hospitals of Kilimanjaro, Tanzania-

Hospital Location HLA Typing Test Cost Range (USD) HLA Typing Test Cost Range (TZS)
Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Center Moshi $320 – $420 700,000 – 920,000 TZS
KCMC Private Clinic Moshi $300 – $400 660,000 – 880,000 TZS
Machame Hospital Moshi $310 – $410 680,000 – 900,000 TZS
St. Joseph Hospital – Mawenzi Moshi $330 – $430 720,000 – 940,000 TZS
Mount Meru Hospital Arusha $340 – $440 750,000 – 970,000 TZS
TPC Hospital – Lower Moshi Health Centre Moshi $310 – $410 680,000 – 900,000 TZS
Shantilal Shah Government Hospital Moshi $280 – $380 620,000 – 840,000 TZS
Siha District Hospital Siha $320 – $420 700,000 – 920,000 TZS
Meru District Hospital Arusha $300 – $400 660,000 – 880,000 TZS
Mwika Lutheran Hospital Moshi $290 – $390 640,000 – 860,000 TZS

Will Heath Insurance policy cover your HLA Typing test?

The coverage of HLA typing tests by insurance in Tanzania can vary based on several factors. Here are reasons why it may or may not be covered:

Reasons it may be covered:

  1. Medical Necessity: If the HLA typing test is deemed medically necessary for a specific health condition, insurance may cover it. For example, in the context of organ transplantation or certain medical treatments.
  2. Preventive Care: In some cases, insurance may cover HLA typing tests for preventive measures, especially if there’s a family history of specific conditions or diseases.
  3. Policy Inclusions: Some insurance policies include coverage for genetic testing or specialized laboratory tests, which may encompass HLA typing.

Reasons it might not be covered:

  1. Not Deemed Medically Necessary: If the test is not considered medically necessary or lacks sufficient evidence for its medical benefit, insurance may not cover it.
  2. Experimental or Research Purposes: If the HLA typing test is being conducted for experimental or research purposes rather than for diagnostic or treatment reasons, insurance may not cover it.
  3. Policy Exclusions: Insurance policies often have exclusions for certain types of tests or procedures. It’s essential to check your policy details for any specific exclusions related to genetic testing or HLA typing.
  4. Out-of-Network Providers: Insurance coverage may be limited or not applicable if the testing is done at a facility or by a provider that is out-of-network according to your insurance plan.

It’s crucial to contact your insurance provider directly to inquire about coverage specifics, understand policy limitations, and confirm whether the HLA typing test is covered under your plan. Additionally, obtaining pre-authorization from your insurance company before undergoing the test can help clarify coverage and avoid unexpected costs.

Here is a list of 10 healthcare insurance providers in Tanzania:

  1. Jubilee Insurance
  2. Britam Health
  3. Sanlam Health Insurance
  4. Resolution Health East Africa
  5. GA Insurance Tanzania
  6. APA Insurance Tanzania
  7. Tanzania Insurance Regulatory Authority (TIRA)
  8. AAR Insurance Tanzania
  9. Mayfair Insurance Company Tanzania
  10. First Assurance Tanzania

HLA Typing test Success rate in Tanzania-

In Tanzania, the success rate of HLA typing stands impressively at 97 percent, reflecting the proficiency and reliability of the healthcare system in providing accurate genetic information. HLA typing, a crucial component in organ transplantation and immune-related assessments, plays a pivotal role in enhancing medical outcomes. This high success rate not only showcases the effectiveness of the testing procedures but also underscores the commitment of healthcare professionals to delivering precise and valuable genetic insights. Patients undergoing HLA typing in Tanzania can find assurance in the robustness of the testing processes, fostering trust and optimism in the healthcare landscape.

General Instructions before going through a HLA Typing test-

Before undergoing an HLA typing test, there are general instructions to ensure accurate and successful results:

  1. Fasting: In most cases, fasting is not required for HLA typing. However, it’s essential to follow any specific fasting instructions provided by the healthcare provider if applicable.
  2. Inform Your Healthcare Provider: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or allergies you may have. Certain medications can impact test results, so your healthcare provider will provide guidance on whether any adjustments are necessary.
  3. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is generally recommended before any medical test. Drinking water helps facilitate blood flow and can make it easier for the healthcare professional to collect a blood sample.
  4. Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the arm for blood collection. This can help expedite the testing process.
  5. Relaxation: It’s normal to feel a bit anxious before any medical test. Take a few deep breaths to relax and communicate any concerns or questions you may have with the healthcare provider.
  6. Follow Pre-Test Guidelines: Your healthcare provider will provide specific pre-test guidelines based on the type of HLA typing test being conducted. Follow these guidelines carefully to ensure accurate results.
  7. Bring Identification: Bring a valid identification document with you to the testing facility. This is standard practice to confirm your identity.
  8. Discuss Pregnancy or Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or if you have any medical conditions. These factors can impact the testing process or interpretation of results.
  9. Follow Any Fasting Guidelines: If fasting is required for a specific type of HLA typing test, adhere to the fasting guidelines provided by your healthcare provider.

New developments in the field of HLA typing test in Tanzania-

Here are some potential areas of advancement in HLA typing:

  1. High-Throughput Sequencing: Advances in next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies have improved the efficiency and accuracy of HLA typing. NGS allows for high-throughput analysis, enabling the sequencing of multiple HLA genes simultaneously.
  2. Allele-Level Resolution: Efforts continue to achieve allele-level resolution in HLA typing, providing more detailed and precise information about specific HLA alleles. This enhances the ability to match donors and recipients more accurately, particularly in organ and stem cell transplantation.
  3. Automation and Standardization: Automation of HLA typing processes contributes to increased efficiency and reduces the potential for errors. Standardization of protocols and reporting formats helps ensure consistency and comparability of results across different laboratories.
  4. Bioinformatics and Data Analysis: Improved bioinformatics tools facilitate the analysis of large-scale HLA sequencing data. This includes the development of advanced algorithms for HLA allele calling, phylogenetic analysis, and interpretation of complex genetic variations.
  5. HLA in Disease Associations: Ongoing research explores the relationship between HLA types and various diseases, including autoimmune disorders, infectious diseases, and certain cancers. Understanding these associations can have implications for disease risk assessment and personalized medicine.
  6. Advancements in HLA Antibody Detection: Improved methods for detecting anti-HLA antibodies, such as solid-phase assays and Luminex-based technologies, enhance the assessment of immune compatibility in transplantation.

Frequently Asked Questions-

1.What is HLA typing?

  • Answer: HLA typing, or human leukocyte antigen typing, is a laboratory test that identifies genetic variations in the HLA genes, crucial for immune system regulation and transplantation compatibility.

2. Why is HLA typing important for organ transplantation?

  • Answer: HLA typing helps match donors and recipients to minimize the risk of rejection by ensuring compatibility between their immune systems.

3. How is HLA typing done?

  • Answer: HLA typing is typically done through DNA analysis, involving techniques like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing to identify specific variations in the HLA genes.

4. What is the difference between HLA-A, HLA-B, and HLA-DR?

  • Answer: These represent different classes of HLA genes. HLA-A and HLA-B code for class I antigens, while HLA-DR codes for class II antigens. Both classes play roles in immune response and transplantation.

5. Can HLA typing be used for paternity testing?

  • Answer: While HLA typing can provide some genetic information, it is not commonly used for paternity testing. DNA testing is more accurate for such purposes.

6. How long does it take to get HLA typing results?

  • Answer: The time for results varies but can take several days to a few weeks, depending on the testing method and laboratory procedures.

7. Are there any risks or side effects associated with HLA typing?

  • Answer: HLA typing is generally safe and non-invasive. It involves a blood sample or cheek swab, with minimal risks.

8. Can HLA typing detect genetic diseases?

  • Answer: While primarily used for transplantation and immune compatibility, HLA typing may provide insights into certain genetic predispositions or disease associations.

9. What is the cost of HLA typing?

  • Answer: The cost varies depending on the method, laboratory, and geographic location. It is often covered by insurance for transplant-related purposes.

10. Can HLA typing be done for siblings?

  • Answer: Yes, HLA typing can be done for siblings to assess compatibility for bone marrow or stem cell transplantation.

11. How often does HLA typing need to be done?

  • Answer: For organ transplantation, HLA typing is typically done once. For certain medical conditions, additional testing may be required.

12. Is HLA typing the same as blood typing?

  • Answer: No, they are different. Blood typing determines blood group compatibility, while HLA typing assesses immune system compatibility.

13. Can HLA typing predict disease susceptibility?

  • Answer: In some cases, HLA typing may be associated with an increased risk of certain diseases, but it is not a definitive prediction tool.

14. Can HLA typing be used for forensic purposes?

  • Answer: HLA typing is not commonly used for forensic purposes. DNA profiling is more widely employed in forensic investigations.

15. What is crossmatch testing in transplantation?

  • Answer: Crossmatch testing is done to ensure there are no pre-existing antibodies against donor HLA antigens in the recipient’s blood, reducing the risk of rejection.

16. How accurate is HLA typing?

  • Answer: HLA typing is highly accurate, especially with advancements in technology. However, there can be variations, and confirmation may be necessary.

17. Can HLA typing be used for personalized medicine?

  • Answer: Yes, understanding a person’s HLA profile can contribute to personalized medicine approaches, especially in the context of immune-related treatments.

18. What is the role of HLA in autoimmune diseases?

  • Answer: Certain HLA alleles are associated with increased susceptibility to autoimmune diseases, providing insights into genetic predispositions.

19. Can HLA typing be done before pregnancy?

  • Answer: Preconception HLA typing is not a routine practice. Genetic counseling may be recommended for couples with a family history of genetic disorders.

20. Is HLA typing used in blood transfusions?

  • Answer: HLA typing is not typically used for routine blood transfusions. Blood typing and crossmatching are more relevant for these procedures.

21. Can HLA typing be done with a saliva sample?

  • Answer: Yes, HLA typing can be done with a saliva sample. Cheek swabs are a non-invasive method for collecting DNA.

22. Are there lifestyle considerations based on HLA typing results?

  • Answer: Lifestyle considerations are not typically based on HLA typing results. HLA information is primarily used for medical and transplantation purposes.

23. How is HLA typing used in cancer treatment?

  • Answer: HLA typing is relevant in stem cell transplantation for certain cancers. It ensures compatibility between the donor’s stem cells and the recipient’s immune system.

24. Can HLA typing be used for predicting responses to medications?

  • Answer: While HLA alleles can influence drug metabolism, specific genetic testing for medication responses is typically different from HLA typing.

25. What advancements are expected in HLA typing technology?

  • Answer: Advancements may include higher-throughput sequencing, improved bioinformatics, and increased automation for faster and more accurate results.

Rating and Reviews,

0.0
Rated 0.0 out of 5
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
Excellent0%
Very good0%
Average0%
Poor0%
Terrible0%

No reviews found.

Show all timings
  • Monday09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
  • Tuesday09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
  • Wednesday09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
  • Thursday09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
  • Friday09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
building Own or work here? Claim Now! Claim Now!

Claim This Listing