Celiac Genetic

This celiac genetic lab test is used to determine genetic susceptibility to celiac disease (CD). CD is caused by an immune response to gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. Although patients with CD may be asymptomatic, infants and young children commonly present with diarrhea, failure to thrive, and abdominal pain and distention.

Some people with a family history of celiac disease wish to determine whether they are at risk or have the probably for developing the disease as well. In this case, a celiac genetic test is performed which looks for the presence of genes that are associated with developing celiac disease. The genes include the HLA DQ Association genes type 2 and 8. Not every person who tests positive for these genes will go on to develop celiac disease, but this test can help aid the diagnosis if the person is already exhibiting symptoms of the disease.

This lab test is performed in following conditions such as:

• Abdominal pain
• Blood in the stool
• Chronic diarrhea or constipation
• Greasy, foul-smelling stools
• Vomiting
• Fatigue, weakness

Also Known As: Celiac Disease HLA DQ Association, HLA DQ2, HLA DQ8