[Association of pulmonar tuberculosis with HLA system antigens in Northeastern Mexico].

Background: Genetic susceptibility to pulmonary tuberculosis (PTb) has been associated with the HLA (Antigens of the Human Leukocytes) system of the MHC (Major Histocompatibility Complex), mainly with HLA-DR and-DQ antigens. Based on this assumption we carried out a case control study to determine the association of PTb with the HLA-DR and-DQ antigens among a sample of patients attending a medical unit belonging to the Mexican Social Security System (IMSS).

Methods: HLA system phenotypes from cases (n=50) and controls (n=417), were defined serologically using a complement dependent microlymphocytotoxic assay.