Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten consumption that leads to damage to the villi that line the small intestine and various health complications. It is closely linked to specific genetic variants in the HLA (human leukocyte antigen) genes and a combination of environmental and immunological factors. Almost all people with celiac carry the risk alleles of HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8.

The genetic genetic predisposition test for celiac test GlutenID analyzes key genetic variants that are associated with an increased risk of developing celiac using a saliva sample. The report will indicate whether you have a variant that puts you at higher risk of having celiac based on the research published in the current literature. This is an important part of the diagnostic process but cannot confirm if you have celiac or not at this time. This genetic predisposition test should be used as an adjunct to other testing like serology or biopsy.

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This gene testing is not a diagnostic tool. Unless you have a diagnosis of celiac disease confirmed by a physician with blood work or a biopsy you should not go on a gluten free diet. The GI specialists who perform this gene testing recommend that you talk to your doctor about your symptoms and how long you have been suffering from them. If you have a family history of celiac, then it is advisable to discuss the results of your test with an at-risk relative.

The gastrointestinal symptoms of celiac include chronic or recurrent diarrhea, abdominal pain and distention, fatige, vomiting, foul-smelling feces, malabsorption and weight loss. Non-gastrointestinal symptoms may include dermatitis herpetiformis, fatigue, joint pain and inflammation, infertility, iron deficiency anemia, headaches, depression or attention-deficit disorder.