Blood Test For Diagnosing Coeliac Disease

Filed in archive Allergy: Diagnostics and Treatment on April 22, 2006

Coeliac disease, also called gluten intolerance or gluten allergy, is a genetic digestive disorder characterized by intestinal damage resulting from exposure to gluten and related proteins found in wheat, rye and barley. The standard test for diagnosing coeliac disease is the upper endoscopy with biopsy.

Researchers from the University of Tampere in Finland, however, were able to develop a blood test for the disease, circumventing the need for an invasive procedure such as endoscopy.

A pinprick of blood is taken from the fingertip to test for tissue transglutaminase and endomysial antibodies. An increased level of antibodies correlates well with the incidence of celiac disease. The test can also be used to monitor the patient's diet.

Results from the test-kit are available within 10-15 minutes, and according to the developers, have been proven to be reliable and user-friendly.

The diagnostic kits are patented by Ani Biotech Oy and its sister company Ani Labsystems Ltd, and marketed as Biocardâ„¢ Celiac Test.