Final answer:
Ankylosing spondylitis is strongly associated with the HLA-B27 genotype, differentiating it from other autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis. It leads to inflammation and pain in the spinal joints and has a distinct genetic basis with ongoing research into its mechanisms.The correct option is B.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic arthritis of the spine, is strongly associated with the HLA-B27 genotype. This condition involves inflammation of the spinal joints that can lead to severe, chronic pain and discomfort.
Unlike rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which primarily affects synovial joints of the hands, feet, and cervical spine and involves type III hypersensitivity reactions, ankylosing spondylitis is a seronegative spondyloarthropathy mainly connected with HLA-B27.
While both conditions are associated with the body's immune responses attacking healthy tissue, the exact genetic factors and the mechanisms by which HLA-B27 contributes to ankylosing spondylitis are areas of ongoing research.The correct option is B.