HLA-Cw Serotype

**Semantic type:** Functional Concept

**Definition:** A subset of serotypes for the HLA class I histocompatibility antigen, C alpha chain protein (HLA-C) found in the human population. Expression of Cw1 is associated with multinodular goiters, Cw6 is associated with susceptibility to psoriasis and alleles of Cw7 are associated with increased risk of age-related macular degeneration. Expression of Cw5 may be associated with increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and expression of Cw4 may protect patients from RA, while Cw3 expression may be associated with increased risk of developing vascular complications for patients with RA. Expression of Cw4 may also be associated with reduced susceptibility to HIV-1 viremia.

**Synonyms:** - HLA-Cw