Question 1

What is Coeliac Disease?

Accepted Answer

Coeliac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition where consuming gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine lining. It is caused by an abnormal immune reaction to gluten proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye, particularly in individuals carrying specific HLA-DQB1 genetic variants. The HLA-DQB1 Low Resolution test is the most important genetic test for assessing coeliac disease risk and ruling out the condition.

Question 2

What causes coeliac disease?

Accepted Answer

Coeliac disease is caused by an abnormal immune reaction to gluten proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. When people with coeliac disease eat gluten, their immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the small intestine, specifically damaging the villi (tiny finger-like projections that help absorb nutrients). This autoimmune response is triggered in individuals who carry specific genetic variations in the HLA-DQB1 gene, though having these genes alone doesn't guarantee the disease will develop. Environmental factors, such as infections or stress, may also play a role in triggering the condition in genetically predisposed individuals.

Question 3

What is the best test for coeliac disease?

Accepted Answer

The HLA-DQB1 Low Resolution test is the most important genetic test for coeliac disease because it identifies the specific gene variants present in approximately 95% of people with the condition. This test is particularly valuable for ruling out coeliac disease, as the absence of these genetic markers makes the condition highly unlikely. While the HLA-DQB1 test assesses genetic predisposition, a complete diagnosis typically requires additional blood tests measuring coeliac-specific antibodies (tissue transglutaminase antibodies and endomysial antibodies) along with an intestinal biopsy to confirm damage to the small intestine. The genetic test is especially useful for family members of those with coeliac disease to assess their risk and for cases where other tests are inconclusive.

Question 4

When should I get tested for coeliac disease?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent digestive symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss. Testing is also recommended if you have a family history of coeliac disease, since first-degree relatives have a 10% chance of developing the condition. Other reasons to get tested include unexplained anemia, fatigue, bone or joint pain, skin rashes (especially dermatitis herpetiformis), or other autoimmune conditions like type 1 diabetes or thyroid disease. It's crucial to continue eating gluten-containing foods before and during testing, as avoiding gluten can lead to false-negative results and make diagnosis difficult.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of coeliac disease?

Accepted Answer

Coeliac disease symptoms vary widely and can affect multiple body systems beyond just digestion. Common digestive symptoms include chronic diarrhea, constipation, bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and nausea. Many people experience non-digestive symptoms such as persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, anemia, bone or joint pain, headaches, tingling in the hands and feet, and mouth ulcers. Children may show growth delays, delayed puberty, irritability, or poor weight gain. Some people with coeliac disease have few or no obvious symptoms, which is why family screening and testing for at-risk individuals is important even without symptoms.

Question 6

Who is at risk for coeliac disease?

Accepted Answer

People with a family history of coeliac disease face the highest risk, with first-degree relatives having about a 10% chance of developing the condition. Those with other autoimmune disorders like type 1 diabetes, autoimmune thyroid disease, or Sjögren's syndrome are also at increased risk. Genetic factors play a major role, as nearly all people with coeliac disease carry specific HLA-DQB1 gene variants. People of European descent have higher rates of coeliac disease, though it can affect any ethnicity. Having Down syndrome, Turner syndrome, or Williams syndrome also increases risk. The condition can develop at any age, from early childhood through adulthood.

Question 7

What happens if coeliac disease is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated coeliac disease leads to ongoing damage to the small intestine, which prevents proper nutrient absorption and causes serious long-term complications. You may develop severe nutritional deficiencies including iron-deficiency anemia, osteoporosis from poor calcium and vitamin D absorption, and deficiencies in B vitamins and fat-soluble vitamins. This malabsorption increases your risk of infertility, recurrent miscarriages, and neurological problems like seizures or nerve damage. Chronic inflammation from untreated coeliac disease significantly raises your risk of developing intestinal lymphoma and other gastrointestinal cancers. Children with untreated coeliac disease may experience delayed growth, failure to thrive, and developmental problems that can have lasting effects.

Question 8

Can coeliac disease be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests are the essential first step in diagnosing coeliac disease and include antibody tests that detect tissue transglutaminase antibodies (tTG-IgA), endomysial antibodies (EMA), and sometimes deamidated gliadin peptide antibodies. The HLA-DQB1 genetic test is a blood test that identifies genetic susceptibility and is particularly useful for ruling out the condition, as 95% of people with coeliac disease carry specific gene variants. However, a definitive diagnosis typically requires an intestinal biopsy to confirm damage to the small intestine lining. Blood tests are highly accurate when you're eating a gluten-containing diet, but you must continue eating gluten before testing for accurate results.

Question 9

How is coeliac disease treated?

Accepted Answer

The only treatment for coeliac disease is lifelong adherence to a strict gluten-free diet, which means avoiding all foods containing wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. When you eliminate gluten completely, the small intestine can heal and symptoms typically improve within weeks to months. You'll need to work with a dietitian who specializes in coeliac disease to learn how to read labels, avoid cross-contamination, and ensure your diet remains nutritionally balanced. Your doctor will monitor your progress with follow-up blood tests and may recommend supplements to correct any nutritional deficiencies. Even small amounts of gluten can cause intestinal damage, so strict adherence to the gluten-free diet is essential for preventing complications.

Question 10

How can I prevent coeliac disease?

Accepted Answer

Coeliac disease cannot be prevented because it's caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors beyond your control. If you carry the HLA-DQB1 gene variants, you have an increased risk, but not everyone with these genes develops the condition. Research suggests that introducing gluten to infants between 4 and 6 months of age while still breastfeeding might reduce risk, though evidence is mixed. If you have a family history of coeliac disease or other risk factors, genetic testing can help you understand your predisposition. Early detection through screening allows you to start a gluten-free diet before serious complications develop, making awareness and testing the most effective strategies for managing risk.

Question 11

What can I do at home for coeliac disease?

Accepted Answer

Managing coeliac disease at home requires creating a completely gluten-free kitchen environment to avoid cross-contamination. Use separate cooking utensils, cutting boards, toasters, and colanders for gluten-free foods, and thoroughly clean all surfaces before preparing meals. Read every food label carefully, as gluten hides in unexpected places like sauces, seasonings, and processed foods. Focus on naturally gluten-free whole foods like fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, dairy, rice, quinoa, and certified gluten-free oats. Join coeliac disease support groups to share recipes, dining-out tips, and emotional support. Keep a food diary to track how you feel and identify any accidental gluten exposure, and maintain regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your intestinal healing and nutritional status.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Coeliac Disease Blood Test

What is Coeliac Disease?

What causes coeliac disease?

What is the best test for coeliac disease?

When should I get tested for coeliac disease?

References

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