Genetici testing of predisposition to celiac disease
The genetic test of predisposition to celiac disease is a procedure that analyzes a person's DNA for specific genetic variants associated with celiac disease. Celiac disease has a strong genetic predisposition, and is closely associated with two specific genes: HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8. Genetic test for celiac disease is not a diagnostic test, but it is a test that assesses the predisposition to develop the disease, thus the risk of being affected when symptoms are mild or completely absent. In practice, a nutrigenetics test can be used as a preventive tool to avoid complications due to the predisposition itself.
In fact, it is estimated that 35% of the population is predisposed to celiac disease. Predisposition alone can carry with it important implications, including:
- Fertility problems: predisposition to celiac disease can adversely affect fertility in women and men due to hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and damage to the gut that can compromise reproductive health. In these cases it often happens that the cause of infertility cannot be identified, since it is sought within the reproductive sphere, when the problem stems from a predisposition to celiac disease.
- Intestinal damage: even in the absence of symptoms, exposure to gluten can cause damage to the small intestine in the case of a person genetically predisposed to celiac disease. This can reduce nutrient absorption and lead to nutritional deficiencies, malnutrition and related disorders.
- Neurological problems: in some cases, celiac disease may be associated with neurological problems such as ataxia, peripheral neuropathy, and epilepsy. Even in the absence of gastrointestinal symptoms, neurological symptoms may occur.
- Increased risk of other autoimmune diseases: people with a genetic predisposition to celiac disease may be more susceptible to developing other autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes, autoimmune thyroiditis, and Addison's disease.
How does a genetic test work?
A genetic test (such as nutrigenetics tests) is practical and easy to perform. Thanks to the most modern and sophisticated genetic techniques, DNA sample collection is conveniently done on your own and can be done at home without any problems. The DNA sample is then sent to major laboratories that will analyze it and e-mail the results in a very few days.
How is genetic testing conducted?
- Order the test that's right for you at saluteovunque.com
- Follow the instructions in the nutrigenetics test kit
- Take the DNA sample: genetic testing requires a biological sample, usually taken through a simple cheek swab with a buccal swab.
- Follow the instructions to send the sample to Eurofins Genoma laboratories free of charge
- DNA analysis: in the laboratory, DNA from the sample is extracted and analyzed for the presence of HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 genes.
- Sending the report: the report is sent, once ready, via e-mail Nutrigenetic counseling: you can request a nutritional consultation with one of our professionals
To whom is genetic testing for celiac disease recommended?
Testing for celiac disease is recommended for:
- those who have a family history of celiac disease, as the presence of cases in the family increases the risk of developing the disease;
- those with nonspecific but persistent symptoms, such as gastrointestinal disorders, unexplained health problems, or autoimmune conditions;
- those who wish to take a preventive approach and anticipate possible consequences due to a predisposition to celiac disease that shows no symptoms.
If, on the other hand, you already have obvious symptoms of celiac disease, then the most appropriate test will be a diagnostic test with a blood draw.
Diagnostic test for celiac disease with blood draw
Diagnostic testing for celiac disease with blood draw is a medical test that looks for specific antibodies in an individual's blood. The presence of these antibodies is a sign of an autoimmune reaction to gluten intake, which is characteristic of celiac disease. In cases where the symptoms of celiac disease are almost obvious, in-hospital diagnostic testing is the best choice.
Conducting the diagnostic test in the hospital
- Blood sampling: the procedure begins by drawing a small amount of blood from the patient's arm
- Searching for specific antibodies: in the laboratory, the blood sample is analyzed for three main antibodies involved in celiac disease: anti-transglutaminase antibodies (IgA tTG), anti-endomysium antibodies (IgA EMA), and anti-gliadin deaminated antibodies (IgG DGP). The presence of these antibodies strongly suggests an autoimmune reaction to gluten.
- Possible intestinal biopsy: If the blood test results are positive for celiac disease, the doctor may recommend an intestinal biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. During the biopsy, a tissue sample from the small intestine is taken through an endoscope and analyzed for damage typical of celiac disease.