Celiac Disease – Gluten Intolerance

What is celiac disease?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the consumption of gluten causes damage to the small intestine, leading to digestive problems, fatigue, and nutritional deficiencies. Approximately 83% of those suffering from celiac disease remain undiagnosed. Genetic screening can reveal a predisposition to the disease, helping with early diagnosis and prevention of complications.

About the test

The celiac disease genetic test will confirm whether you possess the genes associated with an increased risk of celiac disease. The analysis results are ready within 3 weeks from the receipt of the samples at the laboratory.

The genes of celiac disease

The two genes most commonly observed in individuals with celiac disease are HLA DQ2 and DQ8. It does not mean that every person who has these genes will develop celiac disease, however, most people with celiac disease have one or both of these genes present. The term HLA stands for Human Leukocyte Antigen. HLA produces a protein that holds any foreign material (such as small foreign particles, viruses, or bacteria) on the surface of the cell. In the case of individuals with celiac disease, the body is unable to distinguish gluten from the HLA, leading to an autoimmune reaction.

How can genetic testing for celiac disease help?

Genetic testing can help as it can determine:

• Whether you have celiac disease or if the symptoms you experience are due to other reasons
• Whether you are at risk of developing celiac disease at any point in your life
• Whether you carry the genes for celiac disease, which could be passed on to your children

Why is the celiac disease genetic test the best option?

If you suspect that you have celiac disease, you may have considered various alternatives regarding the available screening and diagnostic tests. The genetic test for celiac disease is a test that offers many advantages:

• Many individuals undergoing this test might already be following a gluten-free diet, yet the symptoms they have may not be related to celiac disease and may not be caused by gluten.
• If you have a first-degree relative with celiac disease, you have a 5-10% chance of inheriting the gene. Only a genetic test can confirm whether you have the genes involved in celiac disease.

A common test for celiac disease is the antibody (blood) test. If you have celiac disease, this test can only be used if you are consuming foods containing gluten. A genetic test for celiac disease can be performed at any time, at any age, and regardless of the type of diet you follow.

The genetic test for celiac disease does not require a blood draw. The celiac disease test is performed via the oral swabs provided in the kit you will receive. The self-sampling process requires only a few simple steps and precautions.

Celiac disease genetic testing for children

If the results of the genetic test for celiac disease are positive for HLA DQ2 or DQ8, then your child is at risk of developing celiac disease. This does not mean that they will definitely have celiac disease, and the likelihood of developing it remains low. This gives you time to plan, together with your doctor, a medical and nutritional preventive strategy.