West Midlands
Gluten Intolerance (Coeliac) Test
At OneMedicine, we’re committed to helping you understand and manage your health. If you suspect you might have a gluten intolerance or coeliac disease, our specialised testing services can provide you with the answers you need.
Cost
- Focused GP appointment (15min) £75
- Standard GP appointment (30min) £120
What is Coeliac disease?
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition where your body’s immune system reacts adversely to gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When someone with coeliac disease consumes gluten, their immune system attacks the lining of the small intestine. This damage impairs the intestine’s ability to absorb nutrients effectively, leading to a range of health issues.
Symptoms of gluten intolerance
Symptoms of coeliac disease can vary significantly from person to person. Common signs to watch for include:
- Bloating and abdominal discomfort
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Stomach pain
- Fatigue and weakness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Skin rashes
- Headaches
- Joint pain
It’s important to note that some individuals may experience minimal or no symptoms at all, making diagnosis without testing challenging.
Potential health complications
If left undiagnosed or unmanaged, coeliac disease can lead to significant health complications:
Nutritional deficiencies: Damage to the intestines can hinder the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals, impacting overall health.
Reduced bone density: An increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis due to poor calcium absorption.
Fertility issues: Possible difficulties with conception for both men and women, linked to hormonal imbalances or nutrient deficiencies.
Dermatitis herpetiformis: An itchy skin rash with blisters, often appearing on the elbows, knees, buttocks, and scalp.
Higher risk of autoimmune disorders: An increased likelihood of developing other autoimmune conditions like type 1 diabetes, thyroid disorders, or autoimmune hepatitis.
Gastrointestinal malignancies: Although rare, there’s a slightly elevated risk of intestinal cancers such as lymphoma or adenocarcinoma.
Our testing services
At OneMedicine, we offer comprehensive blood tests to help diagnose coeliac disease. These tests look for specific antibodies your body produces when reacting to gluten:
(£75) Anti-tissue Transglutaminase Antibodies (tTG-IgA): Elevated levels suggest an immune response to gluten.
(£43) Deamidated Gliadin Peptide Antibodies (DGP-IgA and IgG): Sensitive markers that may be included, particularly for those with IgA immunoglobulin deficiency.
Genetic Testing
(£210) (HLA-DQ2/DQ8
This is a genetic test used to assess risk for coeliac disease.
Negative test (no DQ2 or DQ8)
If you do not have HLA-DQ2 or DQ8, coeliac disease is extremely unlikely (over 99% negative predictive value).
So, a negative result effectively rules it out.
Positive test = Increased risk, but not a diagnosis
Mainly used to rule out coeliac disease, especially in unclear cases or if already on a gluten-free diet.
It’s essential to continue consuming gluten-containing foods before undergoing testing, as a gluten-free diet can affect the accuracy of the results, giving potentially false negatives.
Do you have other questions?
If you’re experiencing symptoms or have concerns about gluten intolerance or coeliac disease, don’t hesitate to reach out. Early detection is key to preventing complications and improving your quality of life.
